The Dallas Cowboys are far from finished with their roster overhaul heading into the 2025 NFL season. Following a disappointing 7–10 finish in 2024, the team has already made several bold moves to retool under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Yet, two major storylines continue to loom large: the unresolved contract extension for defensive superstar Micah Parsons and the uncertain future of quarterback Dak Prescott. These developments, along with a series of strategic acquisitions and departures, signal that the Cowboys are still actively shaping their roster in pursuit of a return to contention.
Micah Parsons: A $200 Million Gamble
Micah Parsons, the Cowboys’ All-Pro linebacker, is at the center of intense contract negotiations that could redefine the market for defensive players. Reports suggest that the team is considering a deal worth up to $200 million, which would make Parsons the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history . While team executive Stephen Jones has expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, Parsons has publicly refuted claims of a handshake deal, indicating that negotiations are ongoing.
The stakes are high for both sides. Parsons is entering the fifth year of his rookie contract, set to earn $24 million in 2025. Failing to secure an extension could lead to the use of the franchise tag in 2026, a scenario the Cowboys would prefer to avoid . The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the team’s salary cap and defensive strategy moving forward.
Dak Prescott: The Clock Is Ticking
Quarterback Dak Prescott’s future with the Cowboys is equally uncertain. After a lackluster 2024 season, where the team missed the playoffs, Prescott faces mounting pressure to deliver in 2025. Complicating matters is the team’s brutal schedule, which includes a challenging stretch of games in the second half of the season .
Prescott’s performance this season could determine his long-term role with the franchise. With his contract set to expire, the Cowboys must decide whether to commit to him as their quarterback of the future or explore other options. The team’s success—or lack thereof—in 2025 will likely influence this decision.
Strategic Acquisitions and Departures
In an effort to bolster their roster, the Cowboys have made several notable moves this offseason. One of the most talked-about acquisitions is wide receiver George Pickens, acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers. While Pickens brings big-play potential, concerns about his consistency and behavior have raised eyebrows . Nonetheless, the team is betting on his athletic upside to enhance their offensive dynamics.
The Cowboys have also focused on adding speed and versatility to their offense. They re-signed KaVontae Turpin and drafted rookie running back Jaydon Blue, both known for their explosive playmaking abilities . Additionally, the team signed running back Javonte Williams to a one-year deal, providing depth and competition in the backfield .
On the defensive side, the Cowboys brought back pass rusher Dante Fowler Jr. on a one-year deal after his productive season with the Washington Commanders . They also signed veteran defensive tackle Solomon Thomas to a two-year contract, aiming to strengthen their defensive line .
However, the team has also experienced significant departures. Longtime defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence signed with the Seattle Seahawks, while cornerback Jourdan Lewis joined the Jacksonville Jaguars . These losses will test the depth and resilience of the Cowboys’ defense in the upcoming season.
The Road Ahead
As the Cowboys navigate these roster changes, the unresolved situations with Micah Parsons and Dak Prescott remain critical. Securing Parsons’ extension would solidify the defense’s cornerstone, while clarifying Prescott’s future is essential for offensive stability. The team’s ability to address these issues, along with integrating new acquisitions and compensating for key departures, will determine their competitiveness in the 2025 season.
With a challenging schedule and high expectations, the Cowboys are under pressure to make decisive moves. The coming months will be pivotal in shaping the team’s trajectory and aspirations for a return to playoff contention.