Micah Parsons' Cowboys Future Holdout on the Horizon?

Parsons at Cowboys Minicamp: Extension Talks Loom as Training Camp Approaches

The Dallas Cowboys' mandatory minicamp kicked off this week in Frisco, Texas, with star edge rusher Micah Parsons present. While Parsons confirmed his attendance at the upcoming training camp in Oxnard, California, uncertainty surrounds his participation in practice sessions without a contract extension in place.

"We'll see," Parsons stated, adding, "It's time to tell." This sentiment hangs heavy in the air as negotiations appear to be in a delicate state.

Stalled Negotiations?

Meaningful discussions between the Cowboys and Parsons regarding a long-term deal seem to have stalled since a meeting in March between Parsons and owner/general manager Jerry Jones. Although Jones indicated at the time that an agreement had been reached on key terms like deal length, guaranteed money, and average salary, Parsons later clarified that any deal would require the involvement of his agent, David Mulugheta. Despite this, Parsons remains "pretty hopeful" that a deal can be finalized.

He further emphasized, "Still hanging tight. Like I said, it's up to [Jones]. He gives the green light on everything, so hopefully something's done by next month."

The Waiting Game

A potential sticking point seems to be who initiates the next move. While Parsons suggests it's Jones' responsibility to push the deal forward, he himself initiated talks back in March. When asked if he would consider a similar approach now, Parsons declined to comment.

During a 30-minute on-field conversation between Parsons and Jones during practice, the contract was reportedly not discussed. Instead, the focus was on Parsons' offseason training and leadership role.

"We were talking about how my offseason has been, the training I've been putting in," Parsons explained. "He was telling me I look pretty good, so I got excited about that. Asking me about the trip I just went on. It was a pretty good conversation. Then obviously just stepping up and being a leader and how much he appreciates it. And that means a lot to me."

Parsons' Current Status and Future Options

Parsons, who experienced some back tightness, did not participate in on-field drills on Tuesday but hasn't ruled out doing so later in the week. He is currently slated to play the upcoming season on his fifth-year option, earning a little over $21 million. Without a long-term agreement, the Cowboys could utilize the franchise tag next offseason, potentially complicating future decisions regarding other key free agents, including cornerback DaRon Bland, wide receiver George Pickens, and tight end Jake Ferguson.

The Financial Landscape

Parsons is widely expected to become the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL, surpassing Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett's $40 million per year. To put things in perspective:

• Last year, the Cowboys made Dak Prescott the highest-paid quarterback at $60 million annually.
• CeeDee Lamb became the second-highest-paid receiver at $34 million annually.

However, both of those deals materialized close to critical deadlines – Lamb missed almost all of training camp, and Prescott's deal was finalized just hours before the season opener.

Parsons' Perspective

"I just keep on working," Parsons said. "At the end of the day, man, like, I still love football. I think it's still about football. [I] understand the business side always kind of creeps in every couple of years in the football world. I just keep it about football."

He also acknowledged the different circumstances of veteran pass rushers like T.J. Watt and Trey Hendrickson, who have already secured multiple deals. Parsons emphasized that he is still growing and entering his second deal, highlighting the unique nature of each player's situation.

Looking Ahead

The Cowboys have a full practice scheduled for Wednesday and a walkthrough on Thursday, concluding their offseason program. The next significant milestone for Parsons' contract negotiations will be the start of training camp. The team is set to fly to California on July 20, with the first practice scheduled for July 22. Parsons has already secured housing for his family during camp and confirmed his presence. The burning question remains: will a contract extension be finalized by then?

"Some people like to take their time more than others, can't rush the process," Parsons concluded. "[Jones] wants to do it as cleanly as possible. I want to do it as cleanly as possible. So it's just about getting it done as clean and as quickly as possible."

As the Cowboys prepare for training camp, the clock is ticking on a potential contract extension for Micah Parsons. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a deal can be reached, ensuring the star linebacker's long-term future in Dallas. The fans are waiting and hoping for a swift and positive resolution that benefits both the player and the team.

Tags: Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys, NFL, Contract extension, Jerry Jones, David Mulugheta, Training camp, Football, Cowboys news, Parsons deal, NFL Negotiations, Dallas Cowboys Offseason, Micah Parsons Contract

Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45487664/cowboys-micah-parsons-minicamp-extension-limbo