The situation between the Dallas Cowboys and linebacker Micah Parsons is getting more complicated. The Cowboys believe they had a deal with him in March, based on some discussions and a handshake. However, team owner Jerry Jones recently stated that not everything was put into writing, which has caused confusion.
Jones shared a personal story, saying he once bought the Cowboys with just a handshake. He believes some negotiations can be informal but recognizes that player contracts must be documented. Despite Parsons having a fifth-year option under his existing contract, it seems Jones prefers to keep that option open, making Parsons carry the risk of injury this season.
Why would the Cowboys want to prolong negotiations? If they wait until 2026, they could pay Parsons more, but they also want to minimize financial risk. The current market rate for top linebackers is significant, with players like T.J. Watt earning over $41 million per year.
In the NFL, teams often negotiate multiple contracts, but they want to protect themselves against potential injuries. For example, if a player suffers a serious injury, their value could drop. So the Cowboys may want to keep Parsons not only under contract but also at a lower rate for as long as possible.
The question now is whether Parsons will accept the Cowboys’ best offer or play out his existing contract. If he turns down the deal, he’ll have to deal with any injuries during the season without a guaranteed contract extension.
This back-and-forth highlights a broader issue in sports: the power imbalance in negotiations between management and players. Teams know that players want to compete, and they may use that to their advantage.
Recent studies show that nearly 75% of NFL players report feeling pressure to play, even when injured. This dynamic often makes it challenging for players like Parsons to negotiate effectively. As we move closer to the regular season, it will be interesting to see how this situation evolves. Will Parsons take a risk to play for the Cowboys, or will he wait for a deal that better reflects his value?
For a deeper dive into player contracts and negotiations, check out the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement.
