The Dallas Cowboys stunned their fans last week by trading All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Immediately after the trade, Parsons signed a four-year, $188 million deal, which included $120 million fully guaranteed.
It's a significant blow to the Cowboys, who failed to qualify for the playoffs last season. Even though the reaction of Cowboys fans to the trade was near universally negative, that mindset isn't shared by everyone, notably ESPN Insider Jeremy Fowler.
According to Fowler, while the loss of Parsons will hurt the Cowboys, they're in a much better position that most fans would give them credit for thanks to their drafting along with the addition of George Pickens.
“People inside in league are not as down on Dallas as fans and media seem to be right now,” Fowler said on ESPN. “The loss of Parsons hurts, but the Cowboys have been a sneaky good drafting team over the past decade and have three former Day 2 edge rusher picks — Sam Williams, Marshawn Kneeland and Donovan Ezeiruaku — ready to go.
“The roster has talent. And the Pickens addition received attention around the league. Evaluators know how good he can be in 2025 in a contract year with a proven quarterback. Despite all that, Philadelphia and Washington are considered a cut above in the division, which seems right.”
The Cowboys will open the post-Micah Parsons era and begin the 2025 regular season on Thursday evening against the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET.
Micah Parsons bid goodbye to Cowboys after trade
After the trade, Parsons bid farewell to Cowboys fans with a touching message on social media.
“This is a sad day, but not a bitter one. I'll never forget the joy of draft night, the adrenaline of running out of the tunnel, or the brotherhood I shared with my teammates, coaches, and the staff who prepared me for every single game. Those memories are mine forever,” Parsons said.
“North Texas will continue to be my home in the offseason,” he continued. “I'll still be here, giving back to the community that gave me so much. And no matter where the next chapter takes me, the bond we've built will never break. Thank you, Cowboys Nation, for every cheer, every moment, and every ounce of love you showed me. Wearing the star has been the honor of my life.”
Parsons and his new Packers teammates are scheduled to begin the season against the Detroit Lions on Sunday afternoon at Lambeau Field.
