Amid persistent trade speculations, the Dallas Cowboys and Micah Parsons seem to be aligned concerning his future with the team. Insiders from the NFL suggest that both parties are “very confident” about finalizing a long-term agreement shortly. Parsons is said to prefer a five-year contract with an average yearly salary of $40 million, potentially making him one of the top-paid defensive players in NFL history.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has recently expressed similar optimism, noting that he and Parsons, although not yet Parsons’ agent, have reached common ground on several key aspects of the forthcoming contract. This transparency has only heightened rumors that a significant extension, possibly reaching up to $200 million, might be secured soon.

Fantasy trade scenarios ignite fan discussions However, in the NFL, nothing is ever certain, and the media has eagerly speculated on what a trade involving Parsons could entail. One imagined scenario? Dallas trades Parsons to the New England Patriots in exchange for a collection of draft picks, including two first-rounders and several mid-round selections over three years.

This hypothetical trade would grant Dallas the No. 4 pick in this year’s draft, allowing them to select another Penn State linebacker, Abdul Carter, to fill Parsons’ shoes. They would also retain their original No. 12 pick, affording them two chances to revamp their defense with more affordable, rookie-contract players. Finding another Micah is challenging However, there’s a major issue with this fantasy: Micah Parsons isn’t just any defender.

He’s a rare talent who has been the backbone of the Cowboys’ defense since his draft day. Replacing him with a rookie, even a highly-anticipated one, is a significant risk, especially if that player isn’t available when Dallas picks. If Carter is chosen at No. 3, or if other targets like Travis Hunter are taken early, the entire strategy collapses.

Even if they secure their preferred player, there’s no assurance he will match Parsons’ performance, leadership, or star quality. Reality check: Parsons is a franchise cornerstone While it’s entertaining for fans to ponder “what if,” the Cowboys appear unwavering in their commitment to keeping Parsons on the team, and rightly so. As the team continues to iron out the specifics of his next contract, one thing is apparent: Dallas is counting on Parsons as the bedrock of their future.