Dallas Cowboys exercise fifth-year option on Micah Parsons, but not as a linebacker

The Dallas Cowboys have made a strategic decision regarding Micah Parsons’ contract, exercising the fifth-year option on his deal. It was an expected move, but the team’s choice to designate Parsons as a defensive end rather than a linebacker has raised some eyebrows. According to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, Parsons would earn $24 million in 2025 as a linebacker, but the defensive end salary is slightly lower at $21.32 million.

Despite being listed as a linebacker, Parsons has predominantly played as a defensive end over the past two seasons, with an overwhelming 87.8 percent of his snaps coming at that position last season, as reported by Pro Football Focus. This positional designation could potentially lead to a dispute, as agent David Mulugheta might consider filing a grievance on behalf of Parsons.

Even though there is financial stability with the fifth-year option, it is improbable that Parsons will actually play under this arrangement. In order to make Parsons the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history, both parties hope to reach a long-term agreement over the next 12 months. It is hypothesized that Parsons would decide to hold out until a sufficient deal is reached if this goal is not achieved.

Derwin James of the Los Angeles Chargers, another one of Mulugheta’s clients, used a similar negotiating approach, holding out of training camp for three weeks before ultimately agreeing to sign an extension while on the fifth-year option.

Dallas decision could lead to contract disputes

Parsons’ stellar resume, which includes three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro accolades in only three years, further solidifies his place in these debates. He has also been a strong candidate for the defensive player of the year award, coming in third twice and second twice overall. His on-field accomplishments are similarly remarkable; he has 89 quarterback hits and 40.5 career sacks.

In conclusion, there could be contract conflicts as a result of the Cowboys’ choice to use Parsons as a defensive end with a fifth-year option, but both sides are actively attempting to find a long-term solution. Parsons is undoubtedly going to be among the highest-paid defensive players in the NBA in the near future given his outstanding play and awards.