Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons. Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Why Micah Parsons' absence at OTAs isn't a concern for Cowboys

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 5/21/24

Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Micah Parsons skipped the beginning of the team's voluntary OTAs on Tuesday, but he's not holding out for a new contract.

Two years remain on Parsons' rookie deal after the Cowboys recently exercised his fifth-year option. While it's been reported that he wants a new contract, he's not attending OTAs to focus on his individual training program.

Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News reported Parsons is working with Dallas boxing coach Tony Mack to improve his hand speed. He used the same regimen last offseason. Clearly, it worked.

Per Pro Football Focus, Parsons, 24, generated career highs in pressures (103), hurries (69) and QB hits (18) last season. He also finished third in Defensive Player of the Year voting behind Pittsburgh Steelers OLB T.J. Watt and Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett.

Micah Parsons is racking up the sacks already

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Gehlken noted Parsons is expected to return to the Cowboys next week, and they don't seem worried about him missing the start of OTAs.

"It more bothers me that people would think that I'm not doing everything I imagine possible to be the best player I can be to help win a championship," Parsons said of fans who think he's sitting back this offseason, via Gehlken. "The [playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers] hurts. I'm not worried about no money, no nothing. That failure sits deep more than anything."

Despite Parsons insisting he's not chasing money, the Cowboys should find a way to pay the three-time Pro Bowler soon. Dallas could franchise tag him when his deal expires, but the price will continue to skyrocket if he keeps showing why he's one of the best players in the league.

Oddsmakers believe Parsons will be in the DPOY conversation again. As of Tuesday, FanDuel gives him the best odds (+600) to win the award ahead of Garrett and Watt.

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