The Dallas Cowboys entered the 2025 season with championship aspirations, but their focus is being tested as the Micah Parsons contract standoff drags on. Tensions surfaced during the preseason finale when Parsons, sidelined with back tightness, was seen lying on a training table without his jersey—an image that quickly spread across social media. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said he plans to address the matter this week, emphasizing that players are expected to keep their jerseys on even if they aren’t playing.
Though Parsons later clarified online that he was only briefly on the table and “meant no disrespect,” the optics hit hard. Owner Jerry Jones has said Dallas offered Parsons a deal that would make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, but negotiations faltered over structure and guarantees. Matters escalated in July, when Parsons formally requested a trade—signaling just how far apart the sides remain. Rumors have since swirled that teams such as the Los Angeles Rams could be monitoring the situation.
Today’s return to practice only deepened the uncertainty. While teammates like Trevon Diggs and Tyler Guyton were back on the field, Parsons was absent from the media-accessible portion of practice. Diggs, speaking afterward, defended his teammate, saying Parsons views Dallas as “his home, his family” and that he’s eager to be back out there.
Still, with just ten days before the Cowboys’ Week 1 matchup against Philadelphia, ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted it’s “fair to question if Micah Parsons will actually suit up for the Cowboys in Week 1.” His absence from practice continues to leave his availability—and focus—in question.
Parsons remains the centerpiece of Dallas’ defense and one of the league’s best defensive linemen, with 40.5 sacks in three seasons. Any disruption to his mindset or presence could seriously affect defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus’ game plan and Dallas’ early-season momentum.
Best Case Scenario
Parsons and the Cowboys resolve their differences quickly, allowing him to suit up against the Eagles in Week 1. Locker room leaders like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb steady the team, Parsons returns to form, and Dallas makes an early NFC East statement.
Worst Case Scenario
Parsons’ continued absence leads to a holdout or limited role in Week 1, distracting the locker room and straining his relationship with management. Trade rumors resurface, questions mount, and the saga defines the Cowboys’ season before it truly begins.
With time slipping away, the drama is no longer just a sideline storyline—it’s a defining test for Dallas. The clock is ticking.