Two key Dallas Cowboys players made an early appearance at the team’s facility a day before the scheduled start of the mandatory minicamp. All-Pro linebacker Mika Parsons and former All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs both showed up on Monday, with expectations that they will participate in the minicamp’s kickoff. Parsons had previously confirmed he would attend, and his presence is particularly significant given his current contract status. While he’s anticipated to finalize a long-term contract this offseason, Parsons is currently playing under the fifth-year option that the Cowboys exercised last spring. He also participated partially in the team’s offseason training activities (OTAs).
Diggs’ return was driven by contract requirements as well, which mandate his participation in at least 84.375% of the offseason program to avoid losing a $500,000 escalator bonus. Diggs had been absent from OTAs due to knee surgery in January and is expected to still be recovering when training camp begins next month. The timeline for Diggs’ full return remains unclear, but the Cowboys are hopeful for another stellar All-Pro season from Parsons. Despite missing four games last season due to injuries, Parsons managed an impressive 12 sacks, along with a forced fumble and two tackles for loss.
The focus now is on when—not if—Parsons will sign his lucrative contract extension. Drawing parallels to last year when CeeDee Lamb signed his big deal late in August, it might be some time before Parsons officially commits. When that happens, Parsons aims to become one of the NFL’s top-paid defenders, potentially surpassing the current highest-paid pass rusher, Browns’ Myles Garrett.
Fan Take: This development is crucial for Cowboys fans as Parsons is emerging as a defensive cornerstone, and his contract extension could set a new standard for elite defensive players in the NFL. Keeping both Parsons and Diggs healthy and on the field could elevate Dallas’ defense, making the team more competitive and heightening excitement for the upcoming season.
