Micah Parsons leaves Cowboys in shocking trade - becomes NFL’s highest-paid non-QB
Yes, you read that right. After all the stalled negotiations, Dallas lost their All-Pro edge rusher to the enemy: the Green Bay Packers.
After months of drama and speculation, star edge rusher Micah Parsons is officially leaving the Dallas Cowboys. The 26-year-old will join the Green Bay Packers in a blockbuster trade that sees Dallas receive two first-round picks (2026 and 2027) in return, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport. They will also receive defensive tackle Kenny Clark.
From Dallas to Green Bay: Micah Parsons signs record-breaking NFL contract
Parsons will sign a four-year, $188 million deal with $120 million fully guaranteed, giving him a $47 million average salary - the highest ever for a non-quarterback in NFL history. The contract surpasses the recent $41 million per year deal of Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt, cementing Parsons’ status as one of the league’s elite defensive talents.
ESPN Sources: Cowboys are trading three-time All-Pro LB Micah Packers to the Green Bay Packers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 28, 2025
Parsons and the Packers already have reached agreement on a four-year, $188 million contract. @DavidMulugheta of @Athletesfirst had a hand in the trade and ultimately negotiating the… pic.twitter.com/Hznxabll0P
The move ends a tense chapter between Parsons and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, which included a public trade request in August amid frustrations over the lack of a long-term deal. Despite sitting out practices and citing a back issue, Parsons remained present at team events, keeping the situation in the headlines throughout the offseason.
Parsons, a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro, quickly became a cornerstone of Dallas’ defense after being drafted 12th overall in 2021. With Green Bay, he’ll step into a team eager to add a defensive star to its front seven and continue his ascent as one of the NFL’s most dominant pass rushers.
For Cowboys fans, the departure marks the end of an era, but the return of two first-round picks offers a potential bright spot for the franchise’s future.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment