Micah Parsons’ departure could spark career season from Dak Prescott

The Dallas Cowboys shook the NFL world last week by trading All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. It was once fully expected that the Defensive Player of the Year candidate would return to Dallas, but the Cowboys will now enter the new campaign without their defensive backbone. 

Even with Parsons, the Cowboys defense was disastrous in 2024. After boasting one of football's best ball-stopping units in both 2022 and 2023, Dallas let even the weakest offenses run amok last year. 

Dallas gave up 27.5 points per game in 2024, the second-worst mark in the NFL. Without the four-time Pro Bowler, the Cowboys' worrisome defensive outlook won't be getting any rosier. 

The result? Even more throws from Dak Prescott.

The 32-year-old quarterback suffered a setback in 2024 after staying relatively healthy over the past three seasons. Prescott managed just eight starts, suffering a partial hamstring avulsion in Week 9 that sidelined him for the remainder of the year.

It was a forgettable year for the Mississippi State product, but you don't have to look too far back to see what Prescott is capable of when healthy.

Prescott posted a career year in 2023, leading the league in both completions (410) and passing touchdowns (36). He also tossed just nine interceptions in what was a high-powered Dallas offense. As the roster stands now, there's little reason to believe Prescott can't meet — or even exceed — those numbers in 2025.

Unlike in 2023, when Dallas had a capable running back in Tony Pollard, the Cowboys possess arguably the NFL's worst backfield in 2025. None of Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders or rookie Jaydon Blue is a threat to surpass Pollard's 1,005 rushing yards. 

Without a reliable backup to shoulder the load, Prescott will be tasked to carry the Cowboys offense. But unlike the team's running back corps, Dallas' wide receiver depth has actually improved.

The Cowboys brought in George Pickens to line up alongside CeeDee Lamb, giving Prescott arguably the most explosive receiver duo in football.  The former Pittsburgh Steeler is a much-needed talent injection as he searches for his own breakout campaign.

With a gutted defense and an unremarkable running back room, Dallas has indirectly set its quarterback up for a huge season. If health permits, Prescott is a threat to surpass 5,000 passing yards and 35 touchdowns — not just because he has the talent, but also because the Cowboys will be counting on him to make it happen.