The Dallas Cowboys have always expressed a willingness to make their stars some of the highest-paid NFL players. While edge rusher Micah Parsons is the next in line for a deal, there is reportedly one major holdup in a potential deal.
During an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Tom Pelissero of NFL.com said that Parsons and the Cowboys know the “type of contract” that will be signed in terms of the average annual value. However, contract length is the lone issue in the deal.
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It’s not exactly surprising, given the Cowboys’ history. Dallas has a reputation for pushing its star players to sign five-year extensions, often meeting the average annual value asking price but insisting on an additional year of club control. It worked in the team’s favor with Trevon Diggs agreeing to a five-year extension, but quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb both pushed back until the club relented on four-year deals.
There’s plenty of incentive for Parsons to stand his ground. With NFL revenues increasing by upwards of $20 million every year, salaries have climbed. The highest-paid edge rushers in 2025 will make $40 million annually, but that AAV will likely push past $45 million four years from now.
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While only one thing seems to be standing in the way of an extension, that doesn’t mean a deal will be signed anytime soon. Dallas has proven that it’s willing to hold its ground for a while at the negotiating table, standing firm on its offer into August. If history is any guide, Parsons will likely sign a four-year extension with the Cowboys right before the regular season kicks off.
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