Aug 22, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Micah Parsons walks off the field after the game against the Atlanta Falcons at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
The preseason finale for the Dallas Cowboys against the Atlanta Falcons was overshadowed by the actions of star pass-rusher Micah Parsons. On August 25, 2025, Parsons did not participate in the game, choosing instead to lay on a trainer’s table rather than join his teammates on the sidelines. This behavior comes during his hold-in for a contract extension, raising questions about his commitment to the team.
Parsons’ decision to scrub the Cowboys from his social media accounts on Thursday further fueled speculation about his future with the franchise. During the game, a notable photo shared by The Athletic journalist Jon Machota showed Parsons seemingly disengaged from the team’s activities, lying down while the game unfolded. The caption accompanying the photo hinted at his desire to be elsewhere: “I don’t think Micah Parsons (on trainer’s table) wants to be here.”
The backdrop to Parsons’ actions involves ongoing negotiations between his agent, David Mulugheta, and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. In interviews with both Michael Irvin and ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, Jones reiterated his stance on maintaining the agreement with Mulugheta, indicating no intent to compromise. Jones expressed confidence in the depth of the Cowboys’ defensive line, stating, “Frankly, our defensive ends may be the best depth, where we have the most talent of any position on the field.” He emphasized his concern over the roster space needed to accommodate multiple pass rushers.
As the Cowboys conclude their preseason, the ongoing discord between Parsons and Jones poses a significant challenge for first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer. With the roster deadline approaching on August 29, 2025, Schottenheimer faces the difficult task of finalizing a 53-player lineup. Should Parsons opt out of the opening game or be traded, Schottenheimer will need to make tough decisions regarding the team’s depth, potentially sacrificing talent in a position that Jones considers a strength to address a vacancy left by Parsons.
This situation not only reflects the pressures of professional football but also highlights the complexities of player contracts and team dynamics. As both sides navigate this period of uncertainty, the implications for the Cowboys’ upcoming season remain to be seen.
