DALLAS COWBOYS
Dallas Cowboys

Jerry Jones doesn't dispel Cowboys' doubts and project remains in Micah Parsons' hands

Defensive shakeup leaves Cowboys with gaps to fill

Micah Parsons
Micah Parsons

The Dallas Cowboys have made several strategic moves in NFL free agency, but their offseason is raising more concerns than providing clarity. While the franchise has strengthened some areas, it has also seen significant losses, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

However, the biggest storyline remains the uncertain future of star rusher Micah Parsons, whose contract status could define the Cowboys' trajectory for years to come.

Cowboys CEO Stephen Jones had stated that the team's approach in free agency would be "selectively aggressive", but their moves have raised eyebrows.

One of the most significant gs was securing defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa with a four-year, $80 million deal, ensuring they retain a key figure on the defensive front.

The team also bolstered its depth by g Solomon Thomas from the New York Jets on a two-year, $8 million contract and adding defensive end Payton Turner for $3 million in 2025.

However, Dallas has lost some major defensive pieces, leaving a void that could be difficult to fill. Longtime defensive leader DeMarcus Lawrence inked a three-year, $42 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks, a move that stings considering his leadership and consistency on the edge.

Additionally, Chauncey Golston departed for the New York Giants, and cornerback Jourdan Lewis signed a $30 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The defensive restructuring has left Parsons as the unquestioned centerpiece, but the uncertainty surrounding his contract status is becoming a growing concern for Dallas.

Parsons' cryptic message fuels contract speculation

Parsons, one of the most dominant defenders in the league, is entering the final year of his rookie contract, earning $24 million in 2025.

With top rushers like Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett securing record-breaking deals, all eyes are on the Cowboys to see whether they will lock up Parsons long-term.

This week, Parsons added fuel to the speculation with a simple yet telling post on X: "It's my time."

Given that Cleveland Browns' Myles Garrett recently landed a contract worth over $40 million per year, it's reasonable to assume that Parsons expects a similar or even bigger deal.

The Cowboys now face a critical decision-extend Parsons to keep their defensive anchor or risk alienating their star player by delaying negotiations.

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