Mika Parsons’ contract dispute with the Cowboys took an interesting twist during the team’s last preseason game on Friday.
As the Cowboys were making their way through AT&T Stadium, they were seen munching on nachos. One fan from Atlanta encouraged Parsons to join the Falcons, prompting him to make a “Call Me” gesture.
It was a peculiar scene, especially when Parsons, the only player still without his uniform, arrived on the field. The 26-year-old linebacker, who has not been participating in training camp, was spotted relaxing on a medical table, confronting a man in a navy hoodie with grey sleeves.
In light of this, Parsons took to social media to clarify his actions after Dallas sports anchor Mike Leslie posted about it. He mentioned that he was on the table for only a “relatively short part” of the game.
Parsons expressed his appreciation, saying the media often skews narratives. He felt that if Leslie hadn’t addressed it, people would have jumped to conclusions.
“I will never underestimate those who are fighting for their lives,” he added.
Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer admitted he was unaware of Parsons’ actions during the game because his focus was elsewhere.
While Parsons didn’t talk to the media post-game, cornerback Trevon Diggs offered insight into Parsons’ situation, revealing that he underwent an MRI for his back.
“It really depends on how his back feels,” Diggs said. “He mentioned it was hurting this morning.”
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones responded to concerns regarding Parsons’ back issues, suggesting they were part of the contract negotiation strategy.
He dismissed the ongoing contract stalemate and claimed those concerns were just “BS,” criticizing Parsons’ agent for complicating matters.
Jones stated he had already made concessions in negotiations, but felt frustrated with the agent’s approach to the situation.
In response, Murgetta, Parsons’ agent, told ESPN that the claims were inaccurate, calling it a misrepresentation of the situation.
Parsons is set to play under a $24 million option for his fifth-year rookie contract this season, aiming for a deal comparable to T.J. Watt’s three-year, $123 million contract with the Steelers.
The Cowboys also have the option to franchise tag him for the subsequent two seasons to prevent him from entering free agency.
