Cowboys-Parsons Contract Dispute Deepens Amid Trade Talks

The Dallas Cowboys are embroiled in a high-profile contract dispute with star linebacker Micah Parsons, who has formally requested a trade after failing to reach a new deal with team owner Jerry Jones. Despite Parsons attending training camp and preseason games, he has not played due to ongoing tensions and reported back tightness, with Jones refusing to entertain trade offers and maintaining that Parsons will remain with the team under the franchise tag. Analysts remain divided on the outcome: ESPN's Sam Acho predicts Parsons will eventually be traded, while Stephen A. Smith believes the two sides will ultimately agree to a long-term contract. The standoff has been marked by public allegations, including Jones accusing Parsons' agent David Mulugheta of derailing negotiations, which Mulugheta denies. Parsons' sideline behavior during the preseason has drawn criticism from fans, though some reports suggest his actions were misinterpreted. The situation echoes past Cowboys contract disputes and remains unresolved as the regular season approaches, with uncertainty about Parsons' availability for the opener against the Eagles.