Disgruntled Star’s Actions Raise Concerns Amid Contract Dispute

Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has announced plans to meet with disgruntled defensive star Micah Parsons over his apparent in-game protest during the team’s recent preseason win over the Atlanta Falcons. Parsons, who has missed the entire three-game preseason due to a contract dispute, was seen laying on a training table behind the team bench while the Cowboys were on offense in the third quarter of the game. The incident went viral on social media, sparking speculation about Parsons’ intentions and the state of his relationship with the team.

Schottenheimer expressed a desire to understand the circumstances surrounding Parsons’ actions, stating, “Without talking to Micah, I need to figure out what he was doing and why he was doing it.” Parsons has since taken to social media to clarify his actions, stating that he was on the training table for “a relatively short portion of the evening” and that he would “never disrespect the guys out there fighting for their lives.”

The incident is the latest development in a long-standing contract dispute between Parsons and the Cowboys. Parsons has expressed a desire to be traded, and has scrubbed the Cowboys from his social media bios. The team, however, believes that Parsons is essentially under contract for the next three seasons, including the current year, due to the franchise tag. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has offered Parsons a contract extension that would make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, but Parsons’ agent has reportedly rejected the offer.

According to Jones, the team had offered Parsons a deal that would have made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league, but Parsons’ agent, David Mulugheta, rejected the offer. Jones stated, “Nobody appreciates Micah Parsons more than the Cowboys or me. Nobody has ever offered him more money than I have to play football. Period.” The two had met earlier this year to discuss contract parameters, and Jones claims that they had reached a deal, but Parsons’ agent rejected the offer.

Schottenheimer expressed confidence that Parsons will be ready to play for the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 4, despite a recent MRI showing “pretty clean” results on his back. The team’s defense is considered deep, and Schottenheimer believes that Parsons will be a key contributor to the team’s success.

The situation between Parsons and the Cowboys remains uncertain, with speculation surrounding his potential decision to sit out the season and sacrifice his huge pay raise for 2025. Parsons’ contract is set to expire after the current season, and he has expressed a desire to be traded. The team has not ruled out the possibility of using the franchise tag to retain Parsons for the next two seasons, but it remains to be seen whether Parsons will be willing to play under the tag.

Parsons, a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro, has been a key contributor to the Cowboys’ success, and his absence has been felt during the preseason. His actions on the training table have sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some questioning his commitment to the team. However, Parsons’ social media post has also sparked sympathy among fans, with many expressing support for the star player.

The situation between Parsons and the Cowboys remains a complex and contentious one, with both sides seemingly entrenched in their positions. The upcoming meeting between Schottenheimer and Parsons will be closely watched, as it will provide insight into the team’s plans for the star player and the potential consequences of his actions.