The Dallas Cowboys face a defining moment as Micah Parsons takes the field amid swirling trade rumors and stalled contract negotiations. Frustrated by extension talks, his future in Dallas hangs in the balance just as the team enters a new era under head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
Will Micah Parsons Start Against the Baltimore Ravens?
The Cowboys are navigating significant change with Schottenheimer’s hiring as the new head coach. Dallas remains optimistic that this fresh leadership will help turn the tide for the franchise. Parsons, already considered one of the NFL’s most dominant defenders, is positioned to anchor an aggressive defense and set the tone for the entire roster.
His preseason performance will provide the first glimpse of how he adapts to new defensive strategies under Schottenheimer. According to the Cowboys’ unofficial depth chart for preseason game No. 2 versus the Ravens, Parsons is listed as a starter. This indicates that Dallas is giving its defensive cornerstone substantial work as the team prepares for the regular season.
Despite the contract hold-in, Parsons remains listed as a starter and is expected to play as long as he is under contract. The depth chart also lists Dak Prescott as QB1, though Schottenheimer stated on Thursday that Prescott would not be at the helm on Saturday.
Parsons is in the final year of his rookie contract with the Dallas Cowboys and is set to earn $24 million in 2025 under the fifth-year option. Talks for a long-term extension have stalled and become contentious, with Parsons reportedly requesting a trade recently due to frustrations with negotiations.
#Cowboys UNofficial depth chart for preseason game No. 2 — versus Ravens. pic.twitter.com/9cecXV32xE
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) August 12, 2025
If an extension is reached, he would likely become the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player, potentially exceeding Myles Garrett’s $40 million annual salary. If no deal is finalized, Dallas can use the franchise tag next year, but the situation remains unresolved and represents a major storyline to watch throughout the season.
MORE: Former NFL GM Floats Stunning Trade Package Sending Micah Parsons to Cowboys’ NFC Rival
Meanwhile, analysts remain skeptical about the Cowboys’ future. However, while critics question the Cowboys’ postseason potential, linebacker Parsons shares quarterback Prescott’s outlook: a relentless optimism, a strong competitive spirit, and a public confidence in the team’s ability to compete with the best in the NFL.
The ongoing contract dispute adds another layer of intrigue to the season, creating a storyline that all fans will be eager to follow as the Cowboys’ campaign unfolds. In Dallas, hopes hinge on breakout seasons from stars like Parsons and renewed leadership on the sidelines.
