The Dolphins Should Not Trade for Micah Parsons

Earlier today, prolific pass-rusher Micah Parsons announced his desire to be traded from the Dallas Cowboys after contract negotiations reportedly stalled between the two sides. Dolphins fans immediately began speculating about the possibility of Parsons joining their team and what it would take to acquire him.

That excitement is understandable; every team in the NFL could use a player like Parsons. And Dolphins general manager Chris Grier has a history of blockbuster trades, having acquired Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb, and Jalen Ramsey in recent years. However, it’s that exact history that likely removes Miami from the Parsons sweepstakes.

Miami previously tried to capitalize on the window created by Tua Tagovailoa’s rookie deal and a strong 2021 draft class, which produced three above-average starters at premium positions. That came at a cost. Those trades required two first-round picks, a second-round pick, and multiple Day 3 selections. They also gave out major contracts to Hill, Chubb, and Ramsey. A few years later, the Dolphins still haven’t won a playoff game, and their core is starting to break apart. Ramsey has already been traded.

The last time a pass-rusher of Parsons’ caliber was traded came in 2018, when the Raiders dealt Khalil Mack to the Bears. Chicago gave up two first-round picks and additional late-round selections. Miami currently has the lowest percentage of cap space committed to rookie deals in the NFL,  a direct result of Grier’s past trades.

The way forward for the Dolphins depends on strong draft classes. A talented young core on rookie deals could eventually open the door for a Parsons-level acquisition. But in their current state, trading for Parsons would only diminish Miami’s roster flexibility going forward.