The Dallas Cowboys face a critical decision regarding Micah Parsons, aiming to secure one of the league’s premier defensive talents beyond 2025. This will likely necessitate making him the highest-paid player at his position in NFL history. Negotiations have proceeded cautiously, with no agreement yet finalized, just 50 days before the season kicks off against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Despite a lack of tangible progress, Parsons is confident he will secure his contract extension. He recognizes his value and its impact on the Cowboys’ salary cap. “I will get my contract regardless of anything,” Parsons stated in an interview. “The market changes every year, the salary limit increased 18% this year, so, if you know contracts, these are based on a percentage. Each player, better paid, takes a percentage of the salary limit.”
In his four professional seasons since being drafted 12th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Parsons has played 63 regular-season games. He has recorded 256 tackles, 52.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, nine passes defensed, and four fumble recoveries. His accolades include selections to the first-team All-Pro squad and four Pro Bowl invitations.
How much should the Cowboys pay Micah Parsons?
Currently, the highest-paid defensive player is Myles Garrett, the Cleveland Browns’ defensive end, who earns an average of $40 million annually. This stems from his four-year, $160 million extension. To retain Parsons, the Cowboys will need to offer a figure exceeding Garrett’s contract. His current deal expires at the end of the upcoming season, potentially making him an unrestricted free agent.
Parsons is set to earn $24 million in 2025, as the Cowboys exercised the option on his rookie contract. Over his first four NFL seasons, the 26-year-old defensive star has earned $17 million.
