Will the Future $200 Million Man Show Up or Not?

As the Dallas Cowboys kick off their voluntary workouts ahead of the 2025 NFL season at The Star in Frisco, Texas, one question looms large over the team: Will Micah Parsons, the superstar defender who’s set to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in league history, show up for voluntary work? After all, with no deal in place, it could be argued that Parsons doesn’t even need to be present. But as we’ve seen time and again, Parsons does things differently. And in a move that has shocked some, he’s shown up for the start of the offseason program, proving that when he speaks about taking on a bigger leadership role, he’s putting his words into action.

Parsons’ Unconventional Approach

Micah Parsons is known for doing things his way, both on and off the field. While he’s missed voluntary workouts in the past for personal reasons or while preparing in alternative ways, his attendance this time carries significant weight. Last year, Parsons showed up late to OTAs, explaining that he needed the time to recover. “I’m just looking at it as time for my body to heal,” Parsons said last year. “I’m an undersized rusher who gets banged up every year. I’m just letting my body heal, I’m just trying to grow, strengthen, and really just get better for the year.”

But this year, despite ongoing contract negotiations, Parsons made the decision to show up for the voluntary phase of the offseason program, sending a powerful message to the team, the front office, and the fans: he’s all in. His commitment, even in the absence of a new contract, speaks volumes about his leadership and determination.

A Shift in Leadership for the Cowboys

Parsons’ decision to be present for the start of the offseason program also signifies his growing leadership role within the team. As the Cowboys’ top defender, he’s already proven his ability to make an impact on the field, but now, as a veteran, he’s showing that he’s ready to step up in the locker room as well. “That’s what Micah’s talked about, the more you’re around, the more chance you have to influence guys,” offensive coordinator Schottenheimer said. “We expect him to be around.”

This leadership is especially crucial as the Cowboys transition into a new defensive scheme with their new defensive coordinator, Matt Eberflus. While former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s scheme closely resembled that of Mike Zimmer, Eberflus is likely to shake things up, bringing in new ideas and methods. Having Parsons, the team’s top defensive player, around early in the year will help smooth that transition, making sure the defense hits the ground running.

The Big Contract Looms

Despite the focus on Parsons’ leadership and presence, the elephant in the room remains his contract situation. Parsons is widely expected to receive a contract extension in 2025, likely making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. While the Cowboys have been known to take their time with contract negotiations, both with Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb in recent years, there’s little doubt that Parsons is putting pressure on the front office to get the deal done.

Early in the year, Parsons made it clear he was hoping for an expedited deal to help with free agency decisions, but that hasn’t happened yet. Now, by showing up to the offseason program, he’s ensuring that the front office doesn’t have a platform to criticize him for not being present. The ball is firmly in their court, and Parsons is making it clear he’s ready for them to act.

Respect for Parsons’ Commitment

Micah Parsons doesn’t have to be at the Cowboys’ voluntary workouts, especially given the negotiations surrounding his next contract. But the fact that he’s showing up, even without a new deal in hand, speaks volumes about his commitment to the team and his work ethic. He’s taking a no-nonsense approach to his leadership role and ensuring that his presence is felt both on and off the field. Major respect to No. 11 for leading by example and demonstrating that he’s not just focused on the paycheck but on the bigger picture: helping the Cowboys succeed in 2025.

As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Parsons. Will the contract come through as expected? Will his leadership continue to shine in the locker room and on the field? One thing is certain: Parsons is already making an impact, and his future with the Cowboys looks brighter than ever — whether or not the deal gets done before the season begins.