FRISCO, Texas (AP) — Mika Parsons attended a mandatory minicamp with the Dallas Cowboys on Tuesday, engaging in a lengthy discussion with owner Jerry Jones on the practice field while his teammates participated in drills.
The conversation extended for around 30 minutes. 2 All-Pro Edge Rush Parsons mentioned it wasn’t focused on the contract extension he aims to finalize soon.
Parsons is in the last year of his rookie contract, similar to last year when the star receiver was absent from the Cowboys during the entire offseason and training camp. I agree to a 4-year contract for $136 million which he signed less than two weeks into the season.
Although Parsons’ participation was sporadic in the offseason, he stated he intends to attend all mandatory sessions, including when the team begins training camp in California next month.
When asked if that indicated he would practice on the West Coast without a new contract, Parsons replied:
Parsons did not practice on Tuesday, citing some tension following workouts with cornerback Trevon Diggs, who had missed the team for rehabilitation prior to this week.
It’s unlikely Parsons will engage in significant on-field activities this week, starting a timer to finalize the deal before camp.
“I’m just focused on work,” Parsons stated. Set to earn $24 million under his fifth-year team option, he, the 12th overall pick in the 2021 draft, acknowledged the duality of football and business. “I know that every few years, the business element resurfaces. I keep my mindset on football.”
Parsons noted that his conversation with Jones was related to his offseason plans, and the team’s general manager remarked that the former Pennsylvania standout appeared in good form and expressed gratitude for Parsons’ presence at minicamp.
Parsons is awaiting a deal from Jones that could exceed the top trade value in the NFL. Miles Garrett of Cleveland recently secured a contract worth $40 million annually.
“That’s the situation,” Parsons explained as he waits for Jones and agent David Murgeta to reach an agreement. “He’s in charge and has to handle things here. It’s ultimately up to him, but I’m committed and preparing as I have all year.
Parsons concluded the previous season with 12 sacks, despite missing four games due to an ankle injury. He and Pro Football Hall of Famer Reggie White are currently the only players since the official recording of sacks began in 1982 to achieve at least 12 sacks in each of their first four seasons. Parsons has a career total of 52 1/2 sacks.
Alongside him, two notable pass rushers, Pittsburgh’s TJ Watt and Cincinnati’s Trey Hendrickson, are also participating in minicamp while vying for new contracts. Hendrickson led the NFL with 17 1/2 sacks last season, with Parsons ranking fifth.
“I believe everyone’s path is unique,” Parsons stated. “Those players have already established themselves as top performers and great leaders. For me, I’m still in the process of building my reputation.”
First-year coach Brian Schottenheimer encouraged Parsons to attend the start of the offseason program, and the four-time Pro Bowler complied. The coach noted that Parsons’ absence from minicamp was not indicative of lack of commitment.
“He’s demonstrating seriousness regarding our discussions. It’s about cultivating a leadership mentality. It shows he’s reliable, not just in high-pressure situations but consistently throughout the week,” Schottenheimer remarked.
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