Micah Parsons’ Cowboys Absence Is Not What It Seems

Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons was not present at the team’s voluntary workouts beginning on Monday, but it’s not due to money, according to Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News.

The reason for Parson’s absence is because he is “focused on a personalized training program outside the facility while determined to prepare himself for the 2024 season in the manner he considers optimal.”

This is nothing new for Parsons. He did the same thing last year, and his contract wasn’t even a topic of discussion last spring.

Parsons became eligible for an extension this offseason. He is still under contract for the next two years, as the Cowboys exercised his fifth-year option for 2025.

A recent report surfaced that Dallas was growing tired of Parsons’ behavior, which had some wondering if the potentially souring relationship could have an effect on contract negotiations. Trade speculation even ensued.

However, it’s entirely possible that the report wasn’t even true, or that the differences between the Cowboys and Parsons are so minor that they will have no effect on the partnership moving forward.

Dallas is very strapped for cash at the moment and was only able to sign one free agent this offseason. Not only that, but the Cowboys also have to worry about paying quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, both of whom can hit free agency next offseason.

Taking those things into consideration, it’s no surprise that Dallas has not yet reached a long-term agreement with Parsons, and given that he will not become a free agent until March 2026, it’s understandable that extending him may not be the team’s top priority at the moment.

Micah Parsons has made the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons and has also earned a couple of First-Team All-Pro selections. He racked up 64 tackles and 14 sacks in 2023.