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As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for training camp, contract talks, or the lack thereof, are once again stealing the spotlight. Last year it was Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Now, it's defensive superstar Micah Parsons. Though the linebacker hasn't hinted at a holdout, fans and insiders are growing increasingly uneasy as the days without a new deal in sight.
Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine recently named Parsons one of the team's top trade assets, not because the Cowboys want to move him, but because his value is sky-high. "Micah Parsons' contract extension is going to be a story until there's a resolution," Ballentine wrote, adding that any potential trade would yield a massive return. Still, he remains confident that the Cowboys will lock him in long term.
Bland's breakout season complicates Dallas' depth chart
Cornerback DaRon Bland also made Ballentine's list, as he heads into the final year of his rookie deal. While trading him seems unlikely on the surface, especially with Trevon Diggs and Shavon Revel Jr. still recovering from injuries, it raises questions about how Dallas will manage its loaded cornerback room going forward.
Bland had a breakout 2023 season, becoming a crucial part of the Cowboys' defensive success. But with the team already heavily invested at the position, it's not entirely out of the question that Dallas could explore offers. Timing, however, is everything. With Diggs not yet back to full speed, letting Bland go now would create more problems than it solves.
Tolbert could be the odd man out at wide receiver
Of the players named, wide receiver Jalen Tolbert seems the most likely to be moved. Now sitting third on the depth chart after the arrival of George Pickens, Tolbert may find his snaps reduced. Some in the organization reportedly see KaVontae Turpin as a more dynamic option in certain packages, which could make Tolbert expendable.
That said, his trade value might not be significant enough to make a move worthwhile. Unless another team is desperate for receiver depth, Dallas may opt to hold on to him for now.
Bottom line
The Cowboys aren't in fire-sale mode, but as contract years collide with roster depth, don't be surprised if things start to shift, especially if Parsons' deal isn't done soon.