Micah Parsons is the story but this is what the Dallas Cowboys are getting in new DT Kenny Clark

A disclaimer: Micah Parsons is the story. The Dallas Cowboys getting rid of one of the most talented players the NFL has to offer is the story. Jerry Jones' front office giving up on the 2025 NFL season before it begins is the story.

And yet, there's one more name we have to talk about: New Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark, who was part of the compensation offered by the Green Bay Packers. Dallas is also getting two first-round draft picks as compensation for Parsons but those won't matter until next season.

So naturally, people want to hear about Clark. Who is he? What can the Cowboys expect? And is he good enough to shed some sunlight on one of the darkest days in franchise history? Let's dive in, starting with some insight on Kenny Clark from A to Z Sports' Packers expert Wendell Ferreira.

Kenny Clark is 'still a highly useful interior defensive lineman'

Ferreira: "Kenny Clark is impressively young for a player drafted in 2016, but he did show some signs of regression last year. The question for the Cowboys is if that happened because of a foot injury suffered in Week 1 or just real decline, and the 2025 season will be a good answer. In 2024, he generated 33 pressures, his worst number since 2020 and down from 61 in 2023.

"After a solid season two years ago, the Packers gave Clark a rare third contract, and the first year of it made them pause. That being said, Clark is still a highly useful interior defensive lineman, with a skill set capable of being effective both against the run and the pass.

"His contract for Dallas is great. Because the Packers usually only give guarantees in the form of a signing bonus, the Cowboys absorb a non-guaranteed deal. Clark will make only $2.3 million in 2025, with essentially team options of $21.5 million in 2026 and $20 million in 2027."

Cowboys badly needed a defensive tackle

Listen, I strongly believe this was a bad move from the Cowboys. But if we're sticking with Clark, the are at least covering a need with the newcomer. Clark will join a group featuring Osa Odighizuwa and Solomon Thomas. Defensive coordinator will have a relatively strong interior defensive line.

Clark's career in the NFL started at nose before he transitioned to three-technique because of how well he rushes the passer. Chances are in Dallas, he'll be playing more time at nose.