Parsons Attends Camp to Avoid Fines
Despite submitting a trade request last week, Micah Parsons, the Cowboys EDGE player, is participating in the team’s training camp to dodge NFL fines. On Monday, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Parsons for his professionalism during this challenging time.
“Brian Schottenheimer said Micah Parsons has been ‘really good in the meetings’ and ‘very engaged,’” reported Jon Machota from The Athletic on X. Schottenheimer anticipates that Parsons’ on-field performance will mirror what has previously been observed.
Financial Implications of Missing Practices
If Parsons misses any practices, he will incur a fine of $50,000 for each session. Last week, the two-time First-Team All-Pro issued a statement confirming his official trade request.
Since early 2023, Parsons has been pushing for a new contract with the Cowboys. However, the organization has shown reluctance to offer a long-term deal, especially considering they can franchise tag him, which would prevent him from becoming an unrestricted free agent until 2028.
Contract Negotiations Under Scrutiny
This season, the Cowboys exercised the fifth-year option on Parsons’ rookie contract, but they must make a crucial decision following the current season. In an interview with USA Today, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones elaborated on the complexities of contract negotiations.
“Let me say this just right,” Jones remarked. “I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t do it that way. I should be trying to get the most value for the Cowboys. I’ve seen players I wish we had renegotiated their contracts earlier and I’ve had several that I was sorry I renegotiated their contract earlier.”
Schottenheimer’s New Role and Preseason Ahead
The upcoming 2025-26 season marks Schottenheimer’s first year as head coach of the Cowboys, following the dismissal of Mike McCarthy this offseason. Having previously served as the team’s offensive coordinator for two years, Schottenheimer will rely heavily on Parsons’ skills for a successful inaugural season.
Notably, Parsons is only the second player in NFL history to achieve 12 sacks in each of his first four seasons. Last year, he recorded 43 tackles, 12 sacks, and two forced fumbles, despite sitting out four games due to injury.
This Saturday, the Cowboys will begin their preseason schedule with a highly anticipated matchup against the Los Angeles Rams at 7 p.m. ET, taking place at SoFi Stadium.
