In an expected move, the Cowboys will sign edge rusher Micah Parsons with a fifth-year option in 2025, a person familiar with the decision said Wednesday. Parsons is scheduled to be paid $21.3 million for the 2025 season.
NFL teams have until May 2nd to pick up the fifth-year option on their contracts with first-rounders drafted in 2021. Parsons has emerged as one of the top defensive players in the NFL. Parsons had 40 and a half sacks in three seasons, earning three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro selections.
The biggest decision for the Cowboys is what to pay Parsons this coming season. By picking up his fifth-year option, the team can secure Parsons' services for the next two seasons. The team could also place the franchise tag on Parsons for a second time after the 2025 season.
The team also needs to extend contracts with some of its star players, Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
Lamb and Prescott enter the final year of their contracts with hopes of signing new deals.
“When you're talking about big contracts like Dak, CeeDee, Micah, those things don't happen overnight,” Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said Wednesday in a pre-draft press conference. he said. “Things like that take time. Obviously there's timing based on what other teams are doing with their players at that position. So there's a lot of moving parts and you definitely want to get it right. .”
49ers pass rusher Nick Bosa has the highest average salary at the position at $34 million. Jacksonville's Josh Allen ($28.25), New York Giants' Brian Barnes ($28.20) and Pittsburgh's TJ Watt ($28) all trail Bosa in average salary.
Bosa has a contract worth a total of $170 million, making him the highest-paid player in the NFL at his position. He also has the highest guarantee total at $88 million. Watt guaranteed $80 million.
If Parsons continues to play well, he could surpass that number.
If a new agreement is not reached, the 2025 offseason will be critical. Parsons was unable to participate in mandatory minicamp or training camp until a new contract is signed.
For now, Parsons plans to participate in mandatory minicamps and training camps. Lamb did not participate in offseason practices as he seeks a new contract. Prescott has participated in offseason practices, and team owner Jerry Jones said he does not expect the quarterback to play elsewhere.
Parsons' base salary for the 2024 season is $2.9 million.
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