Micah Parsons Addresses Contract Tensions Amid Cowboys Training Camp
The Dallas Cowboys kicked off their 2025 training camp in Oxnard, California, on Tuesday, showcasing a vibrant atmosphere filled with energy reminiscent of the first day of school.
Star defensive end Micah Parsons took center stage after practice, discussing the ongoing contract extension negotiations with the team. When asked if he felt the organization was eager to finalize a deal, his response hinted at underlying frustrations.
"Honestly, it really don't matter," Parsons stated. "If they don't want me here, they don't want me here. I'll go about my business. I understand the nature of the business. As long as I'm here under contract, I'm going to do what I have to do to perform at the highest level. If this is the end, this is the end."
Such sentiments are often echoed by players entrenched in holdouts, yet Parsons was present and engaged in Oxnard, alongside cornerback Trevon Diggs.
His commitment to the team remains steadfast, as he has consistently indicated his intention to participate in camp regardless of his contract status. "I just think I'm doing this for myself and my teammates," Parsons emphasized. "This isn't for Jerry [Jones]. This isn't for Stephen [Jones]. I want to be here battling with Terrance Steele. I'm here for these guys; I'm not here for him."
Diggs, currently recovering from a knee injury, echoed the need for patience during this tumultuous period. "It's time to stay patient," he remarked. "It's coming... he's the best player in the NFL. Why wouldn't you pay him? He clearly wants to be here. I've known him ever since he came in. He's worked hard, he's earned everything, he's earned every dollar."
Parsons' frustration is compounded by comments from Cowboys owner and General Manager Jerry Jones regarding his injury history, which have contributed to delays in negotiations. However, Parsons remains unfazed by Jones' remarks, drawing parallels to the prolonged contract disputes faced by Dak Prescott and Ceedee Lamb.
He pointed out that other teams have successfully compensated their star pass rushers, stating, "When you get around the league and see these other teams taking care of their best guy... T.J. [Watt] got taken care of, Maxx [Crosby] got taken care of, Miles [Garrett] got taken care of." His desire for similar recognition is palpable.
Watt recently signed a groundbreaking three-year, $123 million contract, setting a new standard for non-quarterbacks in the NFL. Since entering the league in 2021, Parsons has amassed 256 tackles over 63 games and has recorded 12 or more sacks in each of his first four seasons—a feat previously achieved only by Reggie White.
While Parsons participated in practice, he was limited due to back tightness but anticipates returning to full participation soon. "At the end of the day, I'm just staying in the moment," he said. "Life is so short. I don't want to give up this time, this place on account of someone else. God blessed me to be here. I love representing the Star."
His passion for football is evident as he asserts, "Nothing can hold me back from football. This is genuinely what I love to do." He dismisses the notion of holding out entirely, emphasizing his dedication to the game and his teammates.
