Micah Parsons Expected to Attend Cowboys’ Offseason Program Amid Contract Talks

PALM BEACH, Fla. — Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced that linebacker Micah Parsons is expected to participate in the team’s voluntary offseason program starting next week. This comes as the team navigates contract negotiations with the Pro Bowl player, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract.

Schottenheimer, in his first year as head coach, stated at the NFL‘s annual league meeting that he feels confident in Parsons’ involvement. The upcoming offseason training starts Monday for the Cowboys, along with other teams that have hired new head coaches.

Parsons has a history of not fully participating in offseason programs. In the last two years, he has primarily trained on his own ahead of organized team activities and has only attended the mandatory June minicamp. However, with the recent discussions surrounding his contract, there were concerns that he might again opt out of the offseason program.

In recent years, Parsons has shown a desire to expand his role as a leader on the team. With the offseason departures of key players, he now has a significant opportunity to step into that leadership role. Schottenheimer emphasized the importance of top players also being effective leaders, saying, “The best teams I’ve ever been around, their best players are their best leaders.”

Quarterback Dak Prescott, who has emphasized the value of spring workouts for his leadership growth, shares Parsons’ enthusiasm about the upcoming offseason program. Schottenheimer noted that Parsons is excited about the chance to influence new teammates, as the team anticipates adding several players through free agency and the upcoming draft.

Market dynamics have complicated Parsons’ contract situation. He is among several elite players on the team seeking contracts that reflect their on-field performance. Recent record-breaking extensions for other prominent Cowboys players have added to the challenge of balancing team finances while maintaining competitive salaries.

The Cowboys face difficulties with projected limited cap space and could find that renegotiating Parsons’ salary affects their overall budget and future roster construction. Schottenheimer acknowledged the complexities of negotiating contracts in the current market but expressed confidence that Parsons would participate in the offseason, stating, “I have no question in my mind that he’ll be around.”

If negotiations stall, Parsons may become a trade candidate, which could provide the Cowboys with valuable draft picks and increased financial flexibility to rebuild the team. Letting go of a budding superstar like Parsons would signify a major shift in the franchise’s approach to talent retention and long-term strategy.