The primary storyline emerging from the Dallas Cowboys’ training camp isn’t about quarterback Dak Prescott’s recovery or wide receiver George Pickens’ potential impact—it’s the contract status of star linebacker Micah Parsons. Considered one of the elite defensive talents in the league, Parsons is poised to become the NFL’s highest-paid pass rusher.
However, despite expectations, the Cowboys have yet to make a formal contract offer. While Parsons has reported to camp, it’s unclear how much he’ll participate in practice sessions under offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus.
Cowboys Add James Houston to Bolster Pass Rush Amid Parsons Contract Uncertainty
To support the pass-rushing unit anchored by Parsons, the Cowboys have signed James Houston. Houston was among three edge rushers recently evaluated by the team, the others being Jesse Luketa and Kameron Cline.
The decision to bring in Houston indicates a proactive approach by the Cowboys in bolstering their defensive depth early in camp. His arrival suggests the team is preparing for various scenarios, especially with Parsons’ contract situation potentially affecting his on-field availability.
James Houston (NFL)James Houston’s 2024 season saw him split time between the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns. In eight games with the Lions, he logged eight tackles, two quarterback hits, and a sack before being waived.
He was then picked up by the Browns, where he appeared in three additional games. While his statistical output was modest, the Cowboys appear intrigued by his potential and versatility, traits that could provide valuable snaps in their defensive rotation.
Houston Faces Injury Challenges, Competes for Role in Deep Cowboys Pass Rush Rotation
Injuries have been a significant hurdle in James Houston’s young career. Though 2024 marked a career high with 11 games played, it follows a pattern of limited availability, seven games as a rookie, and just two in 2023 before a fractured ankle ended his season.
Despite these setbacks, Houston has flashed elite talent, most notably during his breakout six-game stretch as a rookie when he registered eight sacks, including a dominant three-sack performance against the Chicago Bears in his first start.
Houston joins a deep and competitive pass-rushing unit that includes Micah Parsons, Dante Fowler Jr., Donovan Ezeiruaku, Marshawn Kneeland, Sam Williams, and Payton Turner. With the depth chart already loaded, Houston will need to prove he can stay healthy and produce consistently.
Still, his explosive potential and early-career flashes give him a realistic shot at carving out a meaningful role on a Dallas defense that’s looking to solidify itself as one of the league’s most formidable units.
