A couple of weeks removed from the dominant performance the Philadephia Eagles displayed against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 59, NFL teams continue searching for ways to mirror that defensive line.
You might be hard-pressed to remember a year when edge rushers had been held in such esteem as they are right now, and with big names like Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby making noise at the position group, general managers across the league are scrambling to add their own blue-chippers. And one premium edge rusher who could surface in trade rumors is Dallas Cowboys superstar Micah Parsons.
Micah Parsons on the Trade Market?
“There’s been enough noise on Micah Parsons’s relationships inside the Cowboys’ building over the last year to put anyone’s radar up for a trade, with Parsons potentially commanding $40 million per year on a second contract,” writes Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer.
“If you’re willing to pay that, plus high-end picks, for a uniquely talented defensive star … I’d give Dallas a call.”
As the 2024 season played out, Stephen Jones showed increasing frustration with major names sidelined due to injury, such as Dak Prescott, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Trevon Diggs. And with the Cowboys often unwilling to spend on even the most valuable players, Parsons popping up on the trading block as he nears the end of his rookie contract wouldn’t be surprising.
As Breer points out, however, “If you’re willing to pay that [$40 million annually], plus high-end picks,” you can land a bonified difference-maker.
With Chicago Bears’ former head coach Matt Eberflus taking over as defensive coordinator, Parsons remains set to lead the unit alongside stars like Diggs and DaRon Bland. However, with Parsons potentially seeking $40 million annually, the idea that Eberflus will be coaching someone else has become increasingly more likely.
If the superstar indeed gets his bag outside of Dallas, what would a trade look like, and who are the most fitting suitors?
Potential Parsons’ Landing Spots
One possibility that sounds almost shocking at first but actually makes a lot of sense would see Parsons suiting up for the orange and black. Cincinnati Bengals star defensive end Trey Hendrickson will be available and a trade for Parsons, alongside a couple of picks, has been rumored.
The move could make sense but with plenty of teams chomping at the bit for a player of Parsons caliber, things could get very interesting soon.
Other teams in the market for a premium pass rusher could include the Bears, Arizona Cardinals, and New England Patriots.
Over his four NFL seasons, Parsons has made three All-Pro teams, accumulated 53 sacks, and earned a total of four Pro Bowl selections by his 25th birthday. Although the Cowboys have publicly stated that they aim for a long-term commitment with Parsons, the potential trade value for him could be substantial.
It’s easy to make the argument that Parsons’ best years are ahead of him as he would be an instant game-wrecker for any team. And with the Cowboys’ glaring needs at wide receiver, running back, and offensive line, a trade could be coming sooner than expected.