This year, the Cowboys have made significant financial commitments, turning quarterback Dak Prescott into the highest-paid player in NFL history and making wide receiver CeeDee Lamb the second-highest-paid player at his position. Next in line for a lucrative extension is star edge rusher Micah Parsons.
Parsons is widely regarded as one of the best pass-rushers in the league, occupying one of the most valued positions on defense. Last year, Nick Bosa of the 49ers set the benchmark for defensive contracts, signing a five-year, $170 million deal. Parsons could surpass that.
However, during a national television appearance on Monday, just before the Cowboys’ home game against the Bengals, Parsons made a stunning statement. He promised he would be willing to take significantly less money than he could command on the open market to stay in Dallas.
And not just a small discount—Parsons suggested he might leave as much as $10 million on the table to remain with the Cowboys.
Micah Parsons: ‘I am Jerry’s Guy’
In an interview leading up to the Bengals game, Parsons was asked about his commitment to staying in Dallas. His response left no doubt. He emphasized his strong relationship with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and his desire to retire in Dallas.
“I am Jerry’s guy. I know it’s easier said than done because I’m not at the table, but that’s my guy,” Parsons said. “We talk about how much we appreciate each other. But I know numbers talk. At the end of the day, just continue to be a Cowboy until I retire. I just really love this place, like I couldn’t imagine myself someplace else.”
Parsons has been a Pro Bowler in each of his first three NFL seasons. Despite missing four games this year due to injury, he has still managed to record 6.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits.
Cowboys Must Handle Free Agency Wisely
With a strong finish to the season, Parsons could likely command a contract exceeding Bosa’s $34 million per year, potentially reaching $40 million annually. Yet Parsons expressed a willingness to take less—around $30 million per year—if it would allow the Cowboys to retain or sign key players.
“It depends on the circumstances—who are we trying to get, who is trying to return? To me, it’s all about the foundation of the team. How can I create the best foundation and play with the guys who helped me create a lot of success?” Parsons explained.
“Those guys helped me get to where I am. It’s just all about their aggressiveness and how we approach free agency. You see a lot of times, the highest-paid player, then we say, they don’t have weapons. They don’t have this. I’d rather be in the best situation. In my eyes, I don’t think there is a big difference between $30 and $40 million.”
Parsons could demand nearly $40 million per year. But on ESPN, he made it clear he would accept closer to $30 million if the Cowboys used the savings to build a stronger team.
Still, he acknowledged that it’s not entirely up to him. “That’s just me talking,” Parsons admitted. “My agent might be mad at me. I can’t complain too much in life.”
