Cowboys Trade Micah Parsons to Packers for First-Round Picks, Kenny Clark

The Dallas Cowboys stunned the NFL by trading star edge rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers for two first-round picks and Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark, a move that has sparked widespread debate about whether Dallas received fair value. ESPN's Adam Schefter suggested the Cowboys might have secured more, possibly an additional mid-round pick, but ultimately prioritized closing the deal amid contract disputes with Parsons. Several teams, including the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles, showed interest in Parsons, with the Eagles notably seeking him despite divisional rivalry, though financial constraints and Cowboys' reluctance prevented such trades. Parsons, a two-time All-Pro with 52.5 sacks and a record-setting contract, would have been a transformative addition for contenders like the Ravens, but salary cap considerations made a trade there unlikely. Jets and other AFC East rivals also explored acquiring Parsons, but the Cowboys' steep demands—two first-round picks, a significant player, and Parsons' contract—kept the trade within the NFC. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones believes the team improved despite criticism, but the trade remains a contentious topic among fans and analysts questioning whether greater returns were possible.