Dallas Cowboys standout Micah Parsons will participate in the team’s upcoming mandatory minicamp, but his attendance at training camp later this summer remains in question, according to sources close to the situation.
The four-time Pro Bowler has been present for voluntary offseason workouts, signalling his commitment to preparation, but his long-term involvement could hinge on ongoing contract discussions.
Parsons, drafted 12th overall in 2021, has quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive players.
With just two years remaining on his rookie deal, the Cowboys are expected to engage in extension talks soon. However, no significant progress has been reported, leaving his training camp status uncertain.
Contract Talks Could Shape Parsons’ Summer Plans
While Parsons has not publicly expressed dissatisfaction with his current deal, the financial stakes are high. As a two-time First-Team All-Pro, he is vastly outperforming his rookie contract, which paid him a base salary of $2.99 million in 2024.
Given his production, 40.5 sacks in his first three seasons, Parsons is in line for a massive payday, potentially making him the highest-paid defensive player in the league.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has historically been willing to reward homegrown stars, but the team also faces financial decisions on other key players, including quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
How quickly they address Parsons‘ extension could determine whether he reports to training camp on time or opts to leverage his absence for negotiation purposes.
“I’m just focused on being the best player I can be,” Parsons said recently. “The business side will take care of itself.”
Parsons’ decision to attend minicamp is a positive sign for the Cowboys, as his presence ensures continuity in the new defensive system.
Despite the optimism around minicamp, training camp could be a different story. If contract negotiations stall, Parsons may choose to hold out, a common tactic among star players seeking new deals.
The Cowboys have dealt with similar situations in the past, including Ezekiel Elliott‘s extended holdout in 2019 before securing a lucrative extension.
What’s Next for Parsons and the Cowboys?
The Cowboys have shown a willingness to extend core players early, as seen with Trevon Diggs‘ 2022 extension. However, with Prescott and Lamb also due for new contracts, the front office must carefully manage its salary cap.
Parsons‘ situation will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the summer. If he skips training camp, Dallas’ defense could face an early setback. But if a deal gets done, the Cowboys will secure one of the game’s most dynamic playmakers for years to come.
For now, all eyes are on minicamp-where Parsons will be on the field-but the real drama may unfold in the weeks that follow.
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