Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, is currently engaged in a contract standoff with linebacker Micah Parsons. This approach follows a pattern that has defined Jones’ tenure with the team, where he often takes a strong and personal role in negotiations with top players.
The situation intensified after Parsons, during an offseason discussion about leadership on the team, remarked: “I don’t need $40 million.” Jones interpreted this as Parsons’ negotiating position and has since insisted there is no reason to go above that figure in discussions. Despite Parsons being represented by certified agent David Mulugheta, Jones has chosen not to negotiate directly with him.
Jones described his approach publicly last week, making a comparison between Parsons’ negotiation tactics and a child appealing to both “Momma and Daddy” for what he wants. He has stated that he already considers the boundaries of negotiations to be set and does not see a role for anyone but himself and Parsons.
These negotiation strategies are not new for Jones. In 1993, Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee Emmitt Smith held out at the start of the season before ultimately securing a four-year, $13.6 million contract—at that time making him the highest-paid running back in the league. More recent negotiations involving Dez Bryant and CeeDee Lamb also saw delays that ended up increasing costs for the team.
Some observers believe that if Jones continues to exclude Parsons’ agent from talks, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) could intervene or even file a grievance. The Collective Bargaining Agreement affirms the right of certified player agents to negotiate on behalf of their clients.
Parsons has remained present at training camp but has not participated in practice despite being cleared medically after an MRI on his back. First-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer said he believes Parsons will play in the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sept. 4. “The business side of it always works out,” Schottenheimer said. “One way or the other, the business side always works out.”
Whether this belief holds true remains to be seen as negotiations continue leading up to the season’s start.
