Last Friday, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones provided some insights into the ongoing contract negotiations with Micah Parsons, expressing frustration over a lack of communication on the extension.
During a training camp session on Tuesday, Jones elaborated that he and Parsons had, in a way, agreed on terms through informal gestures—like handshakes and maintaining eye contact—though nothing formal had been drafted.
“I bought the Dallas Cowboys in about 30 seconds with just a handshake,” Jones shared with NFL Network’s Jane Slater. “I tossed out a figure, shook hands, and we went over the details later. It was an interesting way to do business, but trust me, we had a mutual understanding.”
“Yet, it’s crucial that player contracts are in writing. We’ve got the contract, but we’re still in discussions to renegotiate, which means there’s a lot to sort out,” he added.
As for Parsons, he mentioned that he hasn’t really talked with Jones since a casual chat among Pro Bowl players back in March, which initially centered around leadership but shifted after the signing of the contract.
“Just to clarify, there aren’t any major sticking points here. There are various factors affecting the situation, but nothing seems out of the ordinary for me,” Jones commented.
When asked if there’s a timeline for finalizing Parsons’ deal, Jones laughed, saying, “No, not at all.” He noted that last year’s deals for CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott were finalized later in August and September, respectively.
“I’m not seeing those dates near this one,” he admitted, while acknowledging the need for both parties to come together for negotiations to work. “I think everyone understands that.”
He also remarked that he doesn’t mind the media coverage surrounding Parsons’ contract discussions. “I appreciate the press, both men and women. We tend to get along well, even when there’s criticism—it’s all part of the sport,” he stated.
Although Parsons showed up for a joint practice with the Rams on Tuesday, he did not engage with Jones, and it seems they haven’t spoken since Parsons made his deal request last Friday, according to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Jones expressed uncertainty about whether Parsons would be on the field when the season kicks off on September 4 against the Eagles.
Despite the ongoing issues, Parsons reported to training camp to avoid a potential $50,000 daily fine.
