The Cowboys may be closing in on a deal but it’s not with Micah Parsons

If you’re feeling frustrated by the Dallas Cowboys front office, imagine how Micah Parsons must feel. Dealing with Jerry Jones and his affinity for drama firsthand must require a whole other level or patience. And it seems Parsons’ is running low as he and the team are no closer to a deal on a new contract as they were a year ago.

After requesting a trade and voicing his concerns publicly, Parsons is still waiting on Jones to make a move. Instead, the team appears to be moving forward with a contract for a different defensive player.

The Cowboys’ first big defensive payday might go to a different star

Though the Cowboys aren’t getting anywhere with Parsons, they may be making headway with another key piece of their defense - cornerback DaRon Bland.

Bland told reporters this week that there have been “some talks” with the team about a new deal, and he’s hopeful something gets done before the season kicks off. After a breakout 2023 season featuring nine interceptions and five pick-sixes, Bland’s value has skyrocketed.

And his journey - from a single scholarship offer in high school to becoming one of the NFL’s top defensive playmakers - adds even more weight to his potential payday.

“I was the guy that didn’t have too many offers out of high school,” Bland said. “I had one offer so I went to Sac State, played three years, and then went to Fresno [State] and didn’t start until four games into the season. Just stuff like that. Just keep going. You’ll never know when your opportunity is going to come.”

While top-tier cornerbacks have landed contracts in the $90 million range, Bland could be looking at a deal north of $70 million - a significant investment for Dallas.

Still, the lack of progress on Parsons’ deal is hanging over their heads. Cowboys fans may be encouraged by movement on Bland’s extension, but they’ll be watching closely to see when (or if) the team shifts focus back to its defensive centerpiece.

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