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Micah Parsons Being Groomed for Classic Middle Linebacker Role Under Eberflus

Micah Parsons is embracing a throwback role — and Matt Eberflus is teaching him how to dominate from the middle. In a surprising shift during early OTAs, Parsons has been lining up more frequently off the ball, with coaches reportedly putting him through drills focused on reading the offense, calling signals, and quarterbacking the defense — much like legends Brian Urlacher or Ray Lewis.

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According to team sources, Eberflus views Parsons as more than a pass-rusher: he wants him to become the true field general of Dallas’ defense. “Coach E wants me to command the defense — not just attack,” Parsons reportedly said after minicamp. That means learning how to diagnose run-pass options, drop back into coverage, and anticipate pre-snap adjustments.

Challenge awaits Cowboys as they look to replace Matt Eberflus - ESPN -  Dallas Cowboys Blog- ESPN

The move represents a bold evolution for a player known mostly for terrorizing quarterbacks. But with Leighton Vander Esch’s retirement and Jaylon Smith long gone, Dallas needs a new anchor in the middle. If Parsons can excel in this role, it could reshape the entire Cowboys defense — making it more flexible, less predictable, and better equipped for today’s fast-paced offenses.

Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys DL get in intense beach workout before  training camp

Parsons’ willingness to adapt speaks volumes about his growth. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how well he adjusts to this more cerebral, leadership-heavy position. If Eberflus is right, the Cowboys may have just unlocked a new version of Micah — one that can dominate beyond the edge.

⏰ Game info: Patriots vs. Steelers, Week 3
Game info: Patriots vs. Steelers, Week 3 ⏰ Update time: Just a few Days Away – Patriots vs. Steelers, Week 3 📅 Posted September 19, 2025 ⏳ The stage is set. This Sunday, the Patriots will host the Steelers at Gillette Stadium in a crucial AFC matchup—both teams looking to build momentum after mixed starts to the season. 📺 TELEVISION BROADCAST Nationwide: CBS (national broadcast) Local Coverage: NBC Sports Boston for New England fans; local Pittsburgh channels for Steelers coverage 💻 LIVE STREAMING Nationwide: NFL+ and major streaming platforms carrying CBS games Regional apps: Patriots viewers via Boston sports apps; Steelers fans via Pittsburgh’s regional streaming services 🎧 RADIO BROADCAST New England: Local sports radio (Boston area) Pittsburgh: Local radio stations serving the Steelers market Nationwide: SiriusXM NFL channels 📅 GAME DETAILS Date/Time: Sunday, September 21, 2025 — Kickoff at 1:00 PM EDT Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts Spread & Over/Under: Steelers are slight favorites at –1.5; total points line around 44.5 🔑 KEY STORYLINES Patriots are aiming to secure back-to-back wins after rebounding in Week 2. Coach Mike Vrabel stresses the importance of maintaining defensive intensity against Pittsburgh's run game. Key players like Christian Gonzalez (hamstring) remain questionable; Stefon Diggs is recovering from injury but expected to play limited snaps. Harold Landry III and others are monitoring practice reports. Pittsburgh Steelers are seeking to bounce back from a Week 2 loss to the Seahawks. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the offense will face pressure, while rookie Kaleb Johnson is sidelined from special teams duties after a blunder. Defensive injuries including DeShon Elliott (knee) and Isaiah Loudermilk (ankle) could impact their steel curtain defense. ⚠️ WHY THIS GAME MATTERS This isn’t just any inter-conference clash—it's a test of resilience for both squads. For Patriots, it’s about solidifying their identity under Vrabel and leveraging home advantage. For Steelers, it’s redemption under Mike Tomlin and avoiding an early-season skid, especially with high expectations in the AFC North.