The Dallas Cowboys are entering a crucial stretch in the offseason with one of their most important players, Micah Parsons, still without a contract extension.
Parsons, a three-time Pro Bowler and one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL, is entering the final year of his rookie deal. While Dallas has a reputation for pushing negotiations until the last possible moment, the lack of a new contract has raised questions about Parsons’ long-term future with the team.
Owner Jerry Jones has suggested that progress is being made in negotiations, claiming that both sides agree on most major issues.
However, no agreement has been reached, and the delay is drawing criticism from fans and analysts alike. Pundits argue that dragging out the contract talks risks alienating a franchise cornerstone. Parsons himself hinted at growing frustration, recently stating that waiting too long would “cost them more”-a nod to the rapidly increasing market for elite pass rushers.
Parsons is reportedly aiming to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, with some projections suggesting a deal in the range of five years, $200+ million.
That would put him ahead of stars like Nick Bosa and Myles Garrett in terms of average annual salary. While Dallas has navigated similar situations before with players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, Parsons’ versatility and production make his case unique.
Auburn’s Keldric Faulk emerging as a potential replacement
If the Cowboys ultimately decide not to meet Parsons’ asking price or fail to get a deal done in time, they may be forced to consider a future without him. According to ESPN’s Matt Miller, Dallas could look toward the 2026 NFL Draft to find a replacement-and Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk is a name to watch.
In a recent mock draft, Miller projected the Cowboys selecting Faulk in the first round. At 6-foot-6 and 288 pounds, Faulk offers a rare blend of size and versatility.
He recorded seven sacks last season, showing the ability to pressure quarterbacks from both the edge and interior. His 24 edge pressures and five interior pressures demonstrate his adaptability along the defensive front.
Dallas did sign veteran Dante Fowler Jr. this offseason, but the long-term outlook at edge rusher remains unclear if Parsons departs. Faulk, with another productive college season, could position himself as a top prospect worthy of anchoring the Cowboys’ pass rush in the future.
As the situation with Parsons unfolds, Dallas must prepare for every scenario-including one where their defensive star plays elsewhere in 2026.
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