The Dallas Cowboys have already been embroiled in controversy for being lazy in their off-season moves. Their front office was heavily criticized for lacking charm in this process, but they made a decisive move on Wednesday.
Despite earlier speculations hinting at potential exit talks, the Cowboys opted to exercise the fifth-year option on Micah Parsons’ contract. His impact on the Cowboys’ defense has been nothing short of remarkable since he joined the team. With his rookie contract set to expire, the decision to exercise the fifth-year option was a logical step for the Cowboys to ensure they retain his services.
The terms of the option are based on the veteran being classified as a defensive end, rather than a linebacker. While the linebacker option would have incurred a higher price tag, the decision to label him as a defensive end ensures financial flexibility for the team moving forward.
This decision ultimately resulted in a fully-guaranteed salary of $21.32 million for the 2024–25 season, according to ESPN. It not only secures the defensive end’s immediate future but also positions the Cowboys to negotiate a potential extension beyond the fifth year of his contract. The option to use the franchise tag in 2026 provides additional leverage in negotiations for a long-term deal, should they choose to pursue one.
Micah Parsons performance with the Cowboys
Micah Parsons’ performance with the Cowboys marked him as a generational talent since his arrival as the 12th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He has established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the NFL in just three years.
The veteran’s rookie year saw him record 84 tackles, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles, and 20 tackles for loss. This performance earned him the coveted Defensive Rookie of the Year award, along with Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.
The football prodigy continued to shine in the 2022 season as well, recording 65 tackles, 13.5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries in 17 games. He garnered recognition in MVP and Defensive Player of the Year voting that season.
The 2023 season saw Parsons further cement his place among the NFL greats. Leading the Cowboys with 14 sacks, he made his name alongside legends like Reggie White to become only the second player since 1982 to achieve at least 12 sacks in each of his first three seasons. The veteran sits among esteemed players with 40.5 career sacks in his first three years, trailing only White, Derrick Thomas, and Aldon Smith.
