Two years after his dominant 14-sack 2023 campaign, Micah Parsons enters crucial contract negotiations with the Dallas Cowboys in 2025.
The All-Pro linebacker posted 12 sacks in 2024, maintaining elite production while critics like Colin Cowherd question his playoff performance.
As Dallas weighs a potential record-setting investment, the debate intensifies: Can the 26-year-old Parsons deliver when it matters most?
Elite Production Commands Record Contract Despite Playoff Concerns
Parsons’ impact remains undeniable. In 2024, opposing teams averaged just 17.8 points per game with him on the field versus 25.2 without him, according to advanced metrics. His 12 sacks last season ranked fifth among all linebackers, and his 40.5 total sacks through four seasons trails only T.J. Watt among defensive players in that span.
However, Parsons has faced criticism for disappearing in the playoffs, managing just 1.5 sacks across six career postseason games. Colin Cowherd, never one to hold back, voiced his doubts on “The Herd”, labeling Parsons a “boom or bust” player who bullies average opponents but shrinks in big moments.
“Boom or bust was great for Jerry Jones in the oil business, it’s not great for pass rushers.”@colincowherd reacts to reports of Micah Parsons’ upcoming “historic contract” pic.twitter.com/pT886iKg0r
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) June 27, 2025
Despite the criticism, Parsons’ relentless motor and infectious enthusiasm have transformed the Cowboys defense. Teammates rave about the confidence and swagger he brings. “Micah sets the tone for our whole unit,” said All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs. “His energy is contagious. He makes everyone around him better.”
Cowboys Poised to Reward Parsons with Richest Defensive Deal in NFL History
As Parsons enters the final year of his rookie contract, the Cowboys appear ready to bet big on their defensive cornerstone. Reports suggest Dallas is preparing a five-year, $200 million extension that would make Parsons the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history, surpassing the $160 million deal Myles Garrett signed with the Browns in 2023.
Parsons has demonstrated his commitment to the organization by attending mandatory minicamps and OTAs amidst ongoing negotiations. The Cowboys know they have a rare talent in the prime of his career and seem determined not to let him hit the open market in 2026.
While valid questions remain about Parsons’ playoff production, his overall impact is undeniable. Offensive coordinators game-plan heavily for No. 11, often dedicating multiple blockers to slow him down. Even on plays where he doesn’t record a sack or tackle, Parsons’ disruption creates opportunities for teammates like Demarcus Lawrence and Leighton Vander Esch to make splash plays.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Parsons and the Cowboys to see if they can agree on a deal that matches his immense talent and importance to the franchise. If Parsons can elevate his game in the playoffs and help Dallas end its 30-year Super Bowl drought, any record-setting contract will look like a bargain in hindsight.
No Defensive player is worth a ‘record’ anything; especially if they weren’t the DPOY. If you aren’t paying a top-tier QB you’re just wasting your money.