Micah Parsons Requests Trade from Dallas Cowboys Amid Contract Dispute
Key Takeaway
Micah Parsons, star defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, has formally requested a trade following stalled contract negotiations and growing tension with team management. The 25-year-old, regarded as one of the NFL’s elite pass rushers, made the announcement on social media—expressing frustration over what he describes as a lack of transparency, respect, and fair treatment from the franchise.
What Parsons Said: Emotional Message to Fans
In a heartfelt statement shared via X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Parsons revealed the decision wasn’t easy, especially given his deep connection to the team:
“Yes, I wanted to be here. I did everything I could to show that I wanted to be a Cowboy… But unfortunately, I no longer want to be here.”
He criticised the Cowboys for:
Excluding his agent from key negotiations
Spreading what he called misleading media narratives
Failing to initiate proper talks despite his willingness to sign early
Background: Micah Parsons and the Cowboys
Drafted in 2021, Parsons quickly became one of the NFL’s top defensive stars.
He’s set to earn $21.324 million this season under the fifth-year option of his rookie deal as a defensive end.
If labelled a linebacker instead, he’d be paid a higher sum of $24.007 million.
Parsons has made three Pro Bowl appearances and was runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year in 2023.
Breakdown of Contract Drama
According to NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, the fallout began when Parsons and his agent, David Mulugheta, tried initiating contract talks last year, but were told the Cowboys were focusing on deals for:
Dak Prescott – now the highest-paid quarterback on the roster.
CeeDee Lamb – recently became the NFL’s second-highest-paid wide receiver.
Despite that, Parsons claims he was ready to lock in a long-term contract even before those market-setting deals were finalised.
Tensions with Jerry Jones and the Front Office
While on holiday in Abu Dhabi, Parsons said he personally called Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones to discuss “leadership”—but the conversation shifted to contract terms.
Key developments:
Jones believed a deal was close, covering length, money, and guarantees.
However, Parsons’ agent denied any formal agreement existed.
After several failed attempts to restart talks, Parsons said the Cowboys went “radio silent.”
Even at the NFL owners’ meeting, Jones claimed progress was being made, but no formal communication followed.
Recent Deals Have Shifted the Market
Parsons is reportedly seeking a deal that matches or exceeds recent contracts given to top pass rushers:
Myles Garrett: 4 years, $160 million
Maxx Crosby: 3 years, $106.5 million
T.J. Watt: 3 years, $123 million – currently earning $41 million per year, the highest for a non-quarterback.
The Final Straw: Public Criticism and Injuries
During training camp in Oxnard, California, Jones commented:
“Just because we sign him doesn’t mean we’ll have him… He was hurt six games last year [correctly, four].”
This statement, along with ongoing speculation around Parsons’ injury status and commitment, further strained the relationship. Despite back tightness, Parsons has:
Reported to training camp
Attended team meetings
Continued personal workouts
However, he’s not participated fully in practices, raising questions about a possible “hold-in” rather than a holdout.
Teammate Reactions: Solidarity on Social Media
Following the trade request, several Cowboys players showed support:
Trevon Diggs, DeMarvion Overshown, and Juanyeh Thomas changed their profile avatars to images featuring Parsons.
CeeDee Lamb, who had a lengthy negotiation last season, posted:
“Never fails dawg. Just pay the man… No need for the extra curricular.”
What Happens Now?
At present, the Cowboys have:
Not issued an official response
Not re-engaged in negotiations
The franchise retains Parsons’ rights until 2028 via the franchise tag—though that becomes financially complicated as it would eventually fall under the quarterback tag scale.
Final Thoughts
Micah Parsons’ trade request is not just about money—it’s a clash of values, respect, and how organisations handle their top talent. If unresolved, this could become one of the biggest off-field stories of the 2025 NFL season.
Sources
Micah Parsons’ Official Account – X (@MicahhParsons11)
Cowboys Training Camp Reports – Oxnard, CA
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