Dallas Cowboys star linebacker Micah Parsons has formally requested a trade, citing organizational frustrations, but team owner Jerry Jones remains unfazed. Speaking to the media after Saturday’s training camp, Jones characterized the request as part of contract negotiations rather than a serious intention to leave.
He reaffirmed his high regard for Parsons, downplaying the controversy by referencing similar past issues the team has dealt with over the decades, including contract disputes and injury-related concerns.
Despite the public nature of Parsons’ request, Jones offered no indication that a trade was being considered. He instead focused on the March meeting he had with Parsons, where he claims they came to a mutual understanding.
While Parsons insists the meeting was supposed to be about leadership and was blindsided by a contract discussion, Jones believes a substantial offer was made. Though he declined to reveal specific numbers, he strongly implied that his proposal was generous potentially near the $200 million mark.
Parsons Shows Frustration at Practice as Contract Talks Remain at Standstill
Parsons expressed his dissatisfaction through social media, voicing frustration over internal criticisms, his role in negotiations, and the way injuries have been portrayed by the organization. On Saturday, he was present at practice but did not wear his No. 11 jersey or participate fully with the defense.
Instead, he lingered around offensive drills and eventually sat on the grass during 11-on-11 sessions. Despite his subdued presence, fans loudly chanted his name, showing strong support.
Micah Parsons (NFL)Jones referenced recent contracts signed by elite pass rushers such as Myles Garrett, Maxx Crosby, and T.J. Watt, implying that the offer made to Parsons was in line with those high-value deals. Parsons is set to earn $21.324 million this season under the fifth-year option of his rookie contract.
If no extension is reached, the Cowboys have the option to apply the franchise tag on him from 2026 through 2028 though by that final year, the cost could escalate significantly, potentially reaching the salary range of the NFL’s top quarterbacks.
Jones Prefers Player Talks Over Agents, Cites History of Resolved Contract Disputes
Jerry Jones emphasized his preference for direct communication with players, stating that agents often complicate execution of contracts. He acknowledged that there have been no recent discussions with Parsons’ agent, David Mulugheta, and reiterated his belief that he reached a fair and meaningful offer in March.
This stance underscores a broader philosophy Jones has maintained he values personal conversations with players when high-stakes deals are on the line.
The Cowboys have a track record of difficult but ultimately resolved negotiations with star players. Recent examples include Zack Martin, CeeDee Lamb, and Dak Prescott, all of whom eventually signed lucrative deals after periods of tension.
Jones pointed to these past successes as reassurance to fans. He insisted that financial commitment to core players has never been an issue and suggested that Parsons’ situation would follow a similar path. In closing, he urged fans not to worry, framing the conflict as a normal if occasionally emotional part of team management.
