Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones expressed uncertainty about star edge rusher Micah Parsons being ready for the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 4.
Jones candidly said, “No, absolutely not,” when asked about Parsons’ availability, highlighting that the decision rests largely with Parsons himself. This comment came after a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams, where Jones admitted he had no insight into Parsons’ current stance or mindset.
Trade Request Stalls Talks as Jones Cites Past Contract Resolutions for Hope
Parsons recently submitted a trade request, which Jones downplayed as part of ongoing contract negotiations. Despite the dramatic move, no dialogue has occurred between Jones and Parsons or between the Cowboys and Parsons’ agent, David Mulugheta, since the request.
Even when the two men were seen close to each other during practice, they didn’t interact. Jones was pressed on when negotiations might become more urgent, to which he simply replied, “I’m urgent.”
Micah Parsons (NFL)Parsons is set to earn $21.324 million this season under the fifth-year option of his rookie contract. Jones compared the current contract impasse to past negotiations with stars Dak Prescott and DeMarcus Lawrence, both of whom eventually signed major extensions after playing under pressure-filled contract years.
This comparison suggests that while the situation may seem tense now, Jones sees precedent for a successful resolution down the line.
Parsons Skips Drills, Stays Silent as Contract Talks Hit Stalemate Again
While Parsons continues to attend walk-throughs, he is notably absent from any active practice drills. On Tuesday, he was seen conversing with Andrew Whitworth, a former Rams lineman and mentor, instead of participating in on-field action. Additionally, Parsons has remained silent publicly since his trade request, choosing not to address the media amid growing speculation and tension around his future with the team.
Earlier this year, Jones believed that an agreement with Parsons was within reach, particularly regarding contract length, guarantees, and total value. Jones hinted that the offer on the table was substantial, reportedly nearing $200 million in guarantees.
However, progress halted when Parsons directed the team to negotiate through his agent, Mulugheta. When asked whether Parsons needed to reach out to him personally, Jones responded cryptically, emphasizing that the situation “is what it is,” and leaving the outcome uncertain.
