Report: Cowboys to pick up Micah Parsons 5th-year option as DE, save $2.7 million in salary cap space

The Dallas Cowboys are set to pick up Micah Parsons’ fifth-year option, according to The Dallas Morning News’ Michael Gehlken. It’s not a surprise considering the former Penn State star’s performance to start his career.

But there’s a catch.

The Cowboys are placing his option as a defensive end instead of a linebacker, Gehlken reported. By doing so, the franchise will save about $2.7 million. According to Over The Cap, the fifth-year option for linebackers who have made more than one Pro Bowl is projected to be $24,007,000. For comparison, a defensive end who’s played in at least one Pro Bowl would make $21,324,000.

Parsons’ versatility has been critical to his success in the NFL. A two-time Pro Bowler and 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, he has 213 total tackles and 40.5 sacks in 50 career starts for the Cowboys. He’s listed as an outside linebacker, but has played mostly defensive end since entering the league as the No. 12 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

In 2023, Parsons recorded a career-high in sacks – just edging out his 2022 total with 14. He also had 12 tackles for loss and a forced fumble with a recovery. Over his first three seasons, he’s won the Rookie Defensive Player of the Year award, two first-team All-Pro honors, one second-team All-Pro honor and three Pro Bowl nominations.

What’s next for the Cowboys with free agency approaching

Dallas has until May 2 to officially exercise the fifth-year option on Micah Parsons. If the Cowboys choose to do so, they could still negotiate a larger contract extension before next season. Last year, Jerry Jones and Co. picked up first-rounder CeeDee Lamb‘s fifth-year option, however, he’s still negotiating a new deal this offseason.

Dallas has a lengthy list of upcoming free agents to consider re-signing, as well as multiple stars who are looking for contract extensions. The list of the Cowboys’ free agents includes Tyron Smith, Tony Pollard, Stephon Gilmore, Tyler Biadasz, Dorance Armstrong Jr., Jayron Kearse, Jourdan Lewis, Johnathan Hankins, Neville Gallimore, Dante Fowler Jr., Chuma Edoga, Noah Igbinoghene and Rico Dowdle.

The NFL 2024 calendar year begins at 4 p.m. ET on March 13. At that time, contracts running through 2023 officially run out, making those players free agents. Prior to the beginning of free agency, teams will have a chance to designate one franchise or transition tag player, starting on Feb. 20 at 4 p.m. ET and ending on March 5. Beginning March 11 through March 13 teams can enter into a legal negotiation with players who are will become unrestricted free agents.

Nikki Chavanelle contributed to this report.