Micah Parsons is no longer a Dallas Cowboy. In one of the most shocking trades in recent memory, the four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro edge rusher is headed to the Green Bay Packers. Parsons has already agreed to a four-year, $188 million deal with $120 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Dallas receives two future first-round picks — in 2026 and 2027 — along with veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark in the deal.

The blockbuster move ends a tumultuous contract standoff between Parsons and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones that began more than a year ago. Parsons formally requested a trade on Aug. 1 after negotiations soured, citing Jones’ refusal to involve his chosen representatives in talks. “I never wanted this chapter to end, but not everything was in my control,” Parsons said in a statement to fans. “This is a sad day, but not a bitter one.”

For Jones, the decision echoes the franchise-shaking Herschel Walker trade of 1989, a move that reshaped the Cowboys’ future. But this time, Dallas is parting with one of the NFL’s premier young defenders, a player who has already racked up 52.5 sacks in just four seasons. The Packers, meanwhile, are betting Parsons can be their modern-day Reggie White, an anchor for a defense expected to help push them back into Super Bowl contention.

To gauge the ripple effects of this stunning deal, CBS Sports reached out to executives around the NFL. Their reactions paint a clearer picture of how this trade is being received inside league circles – from disbelief at Dallas’ decision to admiration for Green Bay’s aggressive swing.