Micah Parsons Requests Trade from Dallas Cowboys Amid Contract Dispute
In a dramatic turn of events, Dallas Cowboys standout linebacker Micah Parsons has formally requested a trade from the team, escalating tensions surrounding his contract negotiations. Parsons, a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the league’s premier defensive players, made his declaration public on August 1, 2025, stating that he “no longer wants to play for the Dallas Cowboys.”
Parsons submitted his trade request personally to Stephen Jones, the Cowboys executive vice president and chief sales and marketing officer, signaling a serious breakdown in talks between the star linebacker and the franchise management. His message conveyed frustration over stalled contract negotiations that have stretched throughout the offseason, despite his consistent efforts to remain with Dallas.
“Yes I wanted to be here. I did everything I could to show that I wanted to be a Cowboy and wear the star on my helmet,” Parsons wrote on social media. “I wanted to play in front of the best fans in sports and make this America’s team once again. The team my pops and I grew up cheering for … Unfortunately I no longer want to be here. I no longer want to be held to close door negotiations without my agent present. I no longer want shots taken at me for getting injured while laying it on the line for the organization, our fans and my teammates. I no longer want narratives created and spread to the media about me.”
Parsons reported to training camp but refrained from participating while contract talks remained deadlocked. His dissatisfaction grew as the Cowboys management, led by owner and general manager Jerry Jones, appeared to take a dismissive tone. Jones notably made a controversial comment during the team’s opening press conference, suggesting that even if Parsons signed an extension, he “could get hit by a car,” which Parsons cited as one of the “repeated shots” that influenced his decision to request a trade.
The linebacker emphasized that no formal discussions had taken place between his representatives and the Cowboys. “Up to today, the team has not had a single conversation with my agent about a contract. Not one demand has been made by my agent about money, years or anything else,” Parsons stated, underscoring his willingness to negotiate constructively.
The Cowboys still hold contractual control over Parsons through the franchise tag for the next two years, giving them leverage in any potential trade or extension discussions. However, the public nature of Parsons’ trade request has heightened speculation about his future and potential landing spots within the NFL. Among these, the Chicago Bears have emerged as a possible trade destination, with analysts highlighting the significant impact Parsons could have on their defense, drawing parallels to Khalil Mack’s trade in 2018.
Parsons’ teammates have shown solidarity publicly. Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb took to social media to support Parsons, urging the team to “just pay the man what you owe him.” Other Cowboys players also expressed their backing by updating their social media profiles in support of the linebacker.
This development not only puts pressure on the Cowboys’ front office but also casts uncertainty over the team’s defensive leadership and dynamics heading into the 2025 NFL season. Fans and analysts alike are now watching closely to see how the Cowboys will respond and whether a resolution will be reached before the season begins.