Dallas Cowboys star edge rusher Micah Parsons recently made headlines with his decision to skip voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) this offseason. His choice, though within his rights, sparked some controversy, especially given the team's ongoing adjustments to new defensive schemes under Mike Zimmer. Parsons, however, remained unfazed and defended his decision robustly.
“Yeah, you know, I think the more years you have, the more you understand that there's also like the business side to it,” Parsons said, via NFL Network's Jane Slater.
He highlighted that OTAs are voluntary and pointed out that even the best players, like Aaron Donald, have skipped offseason activities in pursuit of greater career longevity and performance. Donald, notably, sat out the 2017 offseason and still won the Defensive Player of the Year award, a fact Parsons referenced to underline his point.
“I mean, there was a time where Aaron Donald didn't even go to camp and he won Defensive Player of the Year and then went to the playoffs. Like, are we forgetting these times?” Parsons remarked, questioning the criticism of his decision.
The decision to skip OTAs is not purely about rest. Parsons is also negotiating a new contract, a common scenario in the NFL where star players leverage their absence to emphasize their value. He further elaborated on his choice to use the time to heal and prepare independently.
“I’m just looking at it as a time for my body to heal. I'm playing as an undersized rusher who is banged up every year. So I’m just letting my body heal. I’m just trying to grow, strengthen, and really just get ready for the year,” he explained.
For Parsons, the focus on personal health and fitness is paramount, especially given the physical toll of his position.
Despite the missed OTAs, Parsons reported for the mandatory minicamp, ready to engage with the team and the new defensive strategies. He dismissed concerns about missing out on valuable integration time with Zimmer's new defense, stating that training camp would be sufficient for building the necessary chemistry and understanding.
“You ever watch Remember the Titans? We're gonna be in Oxnard a very, very long time,” he said. “There's gonna be a lot of chemistry on that field.”
Parsons also addressed the impracticality of learning certain defensive techniques without the physicality of pads and contact, which are prohibited during OTAs.
“Like it’s hard to really teach someone without pads or true contact or hand points. Like it’s just not realistic,” he noted. Instead, Parsons focused on individual training, working on his techniques and maintaining communication with the coaching staff.
While Parsons admitted he hadn't spent much time directly with Mike Zimmer, he maintained regular communication with run game coordinator Paul Guenther and felt confident about his understanding of the new defensive scheme.
“Honestly, me and Zim have probably said a total of 20 words together,” Parsons confessed. However, he expressed eagerness to work closely with Zimmer and adapt to his coaching style. “Obviously, some things I’ve got to get used to, too. You know it’s going to be a compromising relationship,” he acknowledged.
Undoubtedly, the backdrop to Parsons' offseason decisions is his looming contract extension. As one of the league's premier defensive players, Parsons is poised to command a significant deal, potentially resetting the market for edge rushers. However, Parsons appeared unfazed by the contract situation, focusing instead on his on-field performance.
“One day. Time will tell. I can’t really put a timetable on it. All I gotta do is keep getting sacks,” he said, underscoring his intent to let his performance speak for itself.
Micah Parsons' 2023-24 season; looking ahead to 2024-25
Parsons' performance during the 2023-24 season was nothing short of stellar. He continued to be a dominant force on the field, showcasing his versatility and relentless pursuit of the quarterback. His ability to disrupt plays and generate pressure was instrumental in the Cowboys' defensive success. Parsons finished the season with impressive stats, reaffirming his status as one of the NFL’s top defensive players.
His strategic approach to resting during the offseason, therefore, makes sense. Given the high-impact nature of his role, managing physical wear and tear is crucial for sustaining peak performance over the long term. By prioritizing rest and targeted training, Parsons aims to preserve his body and ensure he can perform at his best throughout the demanding NFL season.
Looking ahead to the next season, Parsons' decision to skip OTAs is unlikely to have any negative impact on his performance. If anything, his calculated approach to training and recovery suggests he will enter the season rejuvenated and ready to dominate. His familiarity with the team's defensive framework and ongoing communication with coaches provide a solid foundation for integrating any new strategies during training camp.
Parsons' ability to quickly adapt and excel in various defensive roles adds to the confidence that he will continue to be a game-changer for the Cowboys. His explosive speed, combined with his instinctive playmaking abilities, makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses. As the Cowboys gear up for the new season, Parsons’ presence on the field will be pivotal to their defensive efforts.
As he navigates contract negotiations and prepares for the new defensive schemes, Parsons remains committed to his goal of excellence. His ability to stay focused on his performance and his confidence in his training regimen highlight the professionalism and dedication that have made him one of the NFL’s brightest stars. The Cowboys and their fans can look forward to another season of standout performances from Micah Parsons, who is poised to continue making a significant impact on the field.
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