Parsons Feels 'Abandoned' After Jake Ferguson's Lucrative Cowboys Contract
Oxnard, CA – July 28
A cloud of frustration hangs over the Dallas Cowboys’ training camp as star linebacker Micah Parsons expresses feelings of being overlooked following the team’s recent contract extension with tight end Jake Ferguson. The move has left Parsons, a four-time Pro Bowler and the heart of the defense, questioning his value as he enters the final year of his rookie deal.
On Sunday, the Cowboys announced a four-year, $52 million extension for Ferguson, including $30 million guaranteed, making him the seventh-highest-paid tight end in the NFL. The deal, brokered by agent Jack Bechta, rewards Ferguson’s 2023 breakout (71 catches, 761 yards) despite a quieter 2024 (59 catches, 494 yards, no touchdowns). Yet, the absence of progress on Parsons’ extension—despite his 52.5 career sacks and 2024’s 13.5 sacks—has sparked tension.
Parsons, 26, shared his disappointment with reporters after a limited practice session. “It feels like I’ve been abandoned,” he admitted, his voice tinged with resolve. “I’ve given everything to this team, and seeing Jake get paid while I’m still waiting… it stings.” His comments come amid fan chants of “Pay Micah” that greeted owner Jerry Jones during a public camp event, reflecting growing discontent.
Jones has downplayed the delay, citing injury concerns from Parsons’ four missed games in 2024, though the linebacker insists he’s healthy. With peers like Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt securing $40 million-plus annual deals, Parsons seeks to become the highest-paid non-quarterback, a goal stalled by the front office’s focus on Ferguson.
The locker room buzzes with speculation. Some teammates support Parsons, while others see Ferguson’s extension as a strategic move to stabilize the offense. Social media echoes the divide, with fans debating whether Jones is prioritizing the wrong star.
As camp intensifies, Parsons’ future looms large. Will he push for a trade, or will Dallas meet his demands? His sense of abandonment could reshape the Cowboys’ defense—and their Super Bowl LX chase.
Stay tuned to ESPN for updates!
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