Star pass rusher Micah Parsons has secured a remarkable four-year contract worth $188 million, with $120 million guaranteed upon signing, but the deal comes from the Green Bay Packers, not the Dallas Cowboys.
On Thursday, the Cowboys traded Parsons to the Packers in exchange for All-Pro defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round draft picks. Team owner Jerry Jones and Parsons were involved in a significant public standoff, culminating in an unexpected trade to another NFC team.
The Packers are eager to compete for Lombardi trophies, and integrating one of the league’s top talents is significant for that goal. While the compensation is debatable, this trade sent shockwaves throughout the NFL, affecting multiple teams and players. Here’s a look at the winners and losers from this monumental deal:
Winner: Micah Parsons
Unquestionably, Parsons is a winner here. Becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history is no small feat. He joins a championship-contending squad and demonstrates the value of elite positions.
Interestingly, Parsons expressed mixed feelings about the trade on social media, stating, “This is a sad day, but not a bitter one.” He will surely cope with the moment using his new wealth.
Loser: Cowboys
The Cowboys have dominated headlines recently, not only due to the Parsons saga but also because of the Netflix release “America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys,” documenting their rise and fall. Handing over their best player certainly doesn’t help their chances of reclaiming dominance in the NFL.
The Cowboys’ standings as a contender have suffered with Parsons’ loss, especially since he maintains the highest pressure rate in the NFL over the last four seasons (20.3%).
Winner: Packers
The Packers gain a dynamic force capable of transforming games, giving up two first-round picks and a defensive tackle—a deal many teams would eagerly accept. The addition of Parsons strengthens their status in the NFC North.
This trade complicates things for their rivals, the Detroit Lions, as they navigate Parsons’ potential impact.
Loser: Jerry Jones
Jones faltered throughout this process, attempting to manage Parsons’ contract negotiations without his agent and making public comments that upset the player. His indecision ultimately led Parsons to sign a staggering deal elsewhere.
Winner: Remaining NFC East Teams
Parsons had been a threat to the New York Giants and the other divisional teams. With his departure, the Giants and Philadelphia Eagles aim to position themselves more favorably.
Loser: Dallas Sports Fans
The Dallas sports scene has taken a hit. Recent trades have seen top stars depart, leaving fans disappointed.
Winner: Nico Harrison
With the Parsons trade, Mavs GM Nico Harrison sees his previous controversial decisions fade into the background as the spotlight shifts.
Loser: Brian Schottenheimer
As a first-year head coach facing high expectations, losing Parsons before the season opener adds pressure to his tenure.
Winner: Ed Policy
As the Packers’ CEO, Policy capitalizes on a rivalry that has had historical significance, acquiring a premier player from a past opponent.
Loser: Trade Optimists
Many anticipated a deal would be agreed upon, but the unexpected trade surprises many, particularly Michael Irvin, who recently guaranteed Parsons would stay in Dallas.
“I guarantee Micah Parsons is not going anywhere.”
— Michael Irvin on the Cowboys’ trade speculation for Parsons 👀
