Micah Parsons Focused on Proving Value Amidst Contract Stalemate
Dallas Cowboys star pass rusher Micah Parsons remains unsigned as contract negotiations continue, but he’s making it clear that his focus is on his performance, not the market value of other players. Parsons, who became eligible for an extension after the 2023 season, stated, “I’m just going to get mine no matter what” happens with other top edge rushers seeking new deals.
Parsons, entering the final year of his rookie contract with a scheduled $24 million salary on the fifth-year option, is widely expected to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL. This would place him above the current $40.25 million annual average of Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase and the $40 million average of Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Parsons expressed a resolute mindset. “I just work harder,” he said when asked about the lack of a completed deal. “Like, to me, I look at it like if people don’t see your value, you don’t cry and sit down.You just work harder. You got to show people your value.”
Parsons also downplayed the idea of waiting for other edge rushers like T.J. Watt and Trey Hendrickson,who are also awaiting extensions,or Aidan Hutchinson,who is coming off a important injury. “Thay numbers got nothing to do with mine, and my numbers ain’t got nothing to do with them,” Parsons asserted. He highlighted the differing circumstances of each player, noting his own age and lack of injury history compared to others in the market.
The 26-year-old Parsons has been a dominant force since entering the league, accumulating 52.5 sacks in his career and earning All-Pro honors twice and Pro Bowl selections in all four of his seasons. Last season, he recorded 12 sacks and 23 quarterback hits, both career lows, in 13 games.
