Extension Talks Between Cowboys and Micah Parsons Have Not Started

Despite outside linebacker Micah Parsons openly expressing his desire to stay in Dallas under a long-term deal—particularly over the past three months—contract negotiations have yet to begin, according to Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News.

This report contradicts a statement from just over a week ago, when the Cowboys’ website suggested that Parsons and team owner Jerry Jones had a productive meeting, with Parsons stating that “there’s definitely a plan in place.” However, Watkins’ latest update implies that the Cowboys may not have taken Parsons’ expectations as seriously as he did.

Typically, as Watkins notes, the Cowboys wait until the NFL Scouting Combine to initiate contract talks with players’ agents. While Parsons and Jones met in person to discuss what was described as a complex and lucrative extension, it appears those discussions were more preliminary, with real negotiations expected to begin once the combine kicks off.

This situation follows a pattern of hesitation from the Cowboys’ front office. Last year, delaying contract extensions for quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb ended up costing the team millions as other players reset the market. Similarly, Jerry Jones’ decision to let former head coach Mike McCarthy’s contract expire rather than firing him earlier left Dallas scrambling for coaching staff replacements, as many assistants had already moved on.

Beyond the delay in securing Parsons’ long-term future, there have reportedly been internal discussions about potentially trading the star pass rusher. Given Parsons’ outspoken commitment to staying with the Cowboys, the team’s slow approach to negotiations—and apparent willingness to explore other options—is surprising.