In a stunning development for the National Football League, Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons has publicly requested a trade from the team, citing frustrations over stalled contract negotiations and the current organizational atmosphere. Parsons, a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the league’s premier defensive talents, took to social media on August 1, 2025, to announce his trade request, stating plainly, “I no longer want to play for the Dallas Cowboys.”
Parsons personally submitted his trade request to Stephen Jones, the Cowboys’ co-owner and executive vice president, emphasizing the severity and sincerity of his decision. “Yes, I wanted to be here,” Parsons wrote, reflecting on his initial desire to remain with the Cowboys and represent the franchise he grew up admiring. He highlighted his commitment to the team and fans while expressing deep disappointment with the lack of progress in contract talks and what he described as “repeated shots” taken at him within the organization and media narratives around his injuries and intentions.
Parsons recalled growing up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, cheering for the Cowboys alongside his father and recalled how he influenced the team’s decision to draft him in 2021, even as the team moved back in the first round to select him. Despite his loyalty and standout performances on the field, the linebacker detailed his growing discontent over closed-door negotiations happening without his agent present and untrue stories circulating about him.
According to ESPN’s reporting, training camp began with Parsons present but inactive, as contract talks had yet to commence. Faculty at Cowboys camp, including owner and general manager Jerry Jones, had made remarks that Parsons interpreted as dismissive and disparaging regarding his availability and durability, further straining relations. Jones once controversially remarked that even signing Parsons would not guarantee his playing time because “he could get hit by a car,” a comment Parsons found particularly disrespectful.
The Cowboys hold the franchise tag rights on Parsons for the next two seasons, allowing the team to control his contracts if extensions aren’t agreed upon. However, the solid stance Parsons has taken indicates a serious rift that could culminate in a blockbuster trade. Speculation is rife around potential landing spots, with some analysts naming the Chicago Bears as intriguing suitors who could build around Parsons’ elite pass-rushing and linebacker skills.
Parsons has received strong support from teammates, including star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb who publicly backed the linebacker’s stance, tweeting, “Just pay the man what you owe ‘em. No need for the extra curricular.” Other Cowboys defensive players have shown solidarity by changing their social media profiles in support of Parsons, signaling internal unease within the organization.
As camp progresses and the preseason approaches, the Cowboys face a pivotal moment in managing one of their most valuable and influential players. The path forward remains uncertain: negotiations may resume to retain Parsons, the team may use the franchise tag to keep him temporarily, or a trade could reshape the defensive lineup drastically before the regular season.
Micah Parsons’ trade request has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, highlighting the football business’s complexities and balancing player loyalty with contractual realities. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely how the Cowboys respond and where Parsons will ultimately continue his rising career.