In Oxnard, Calif., Dallas Cowboys owner and GM Jerry Jones remains unfazed by Mika Parsons’ recent trade request. Jones described Parsons’ contract situation as part of ongoing negotiations and emphasized that Parsons’ injury issues have been challenging, noting the player’s 30-year-old back concerns. Jones refrained from predicting whether Parsons would play in the Cowboys’ season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 4th, stating he prefers not to comment on expectations amidst ongoing speculation.
Parsons publicly expressed frustration on social media, citing repeated issues with the organization and a desire to no longer negotiate without an agent. At Saturday’s practice, Parsons was present but notably not wearing his usual No. 11 jersey and spent more time training with offensive positions rather than defense. Fans near the field voiced their support for Parsons, chanting his name, but Jones confirmed he hasn’t spoken with the player since the trade request.
Jones reiterated that a contract agreement was made with Parsons in March, which Parsons later rejected. While Jones did not reveal specific terms, he hinted the offer guaranteed nearly $200 million, surpassing outside expectations. The Cowboys face competition in contract trends as top defenders like Miles Garrett, Max Crosby, and TJ Watt have recently secured massive deals.
Parsons is set to earn $21.324 million this season under his fifth-year option. Without a new extension, the Cowboys could franchise tag him from 2026 to 2028, though that approach could be costly given his top-tier market value. Jones prefers direct negotiations with players themselves rather than agents and highlighted the team’s history of negotiating high-profile contracts, citing examples like Zach Martin, Ceedee Lamb, and Dak Prescott.
Jones expressed his commitment to advancing the negotiations to build the best team possible and affirmed his continued enthusiasm for Parsons despite the current challenges.
Fan Take: This situation highlights the complex balance between player demands and team strategies in the NFL’s evolving contract landscape. How the Cowboys handle Parsons’ request could set a precedent in managing star talent and influence team dynamics league-wide.
