Dallas Quarterback Dak Prescott didn't anticipate Micah Parsons being traded; not reporting pressure due to the move

In a shocking turn of events, All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons was traded from the Dallas Cowboys to the Green Bay Packers on August 28, 2025. The move came following a contract dispute with the Cowboys.

The trade, which saw Parsons depart in exchange for two first-round picks and three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark, has left many in Dallas reeling. DaRon Bland, the team's All-Pro cornerback, admitted to being shocked by the news, while KaVontae Turpin, the Cowboys' All-Pro return man/wide receiver, found the outcome "crazy."

Despite the departure of Parsons, who ranked the best in defensive expected points added (EPA) per play for the Cowboys since 2021, Dallas' defensive unit is not without hope. When Parsons was off the field, the team struggled, with the league's worst EPA per play. The arrival of Kenny Clark, a formidable defensive tackle, could provide a much-needed boost.

The Cowboys' offensive line, however, seems to be in good hands. CeeDee Lamb led the NFL with 135 catches in 2023, while Dak Prescott, the team's Pro Bowl quarterback, led the league with 36 passing touchdowns in the same year. Prescott has expressed confidence in George Pickens' transition into the Cowboys' attack, with the former Pittsburgh Steeler boasting a 16.7 yards per reception average since 2023, leading the NFL among 61 players with at least 110 catches.

With Lamb and Pickens on the team, Turpin feels that the Cowboys will dominate. He is excited about the prospect of playing alongside Lamb and Pickens, and believes that the team will continue to thrive without Parsons.

Jerry Jones, the Cowboys' owner, suggested that players uncertain about their future in Dallas should ask Dak Prescott, the highest-paid player in the NFL. Prescott, for his part, doesn't see an increase in pressure due to Parsons' departure. He expressed confidence in Parsons playing with the team in Week 1, but was surprised by the trade.

In a significant change, Brian Schottenheimer has been named the new head coach for the Cowboys in 2025. The team has also named Osa Odighizuwa, Donovan Wilson, Brandon Aubrey, and C.J. Goodwin as team captains for the season.

The trade was beneficial for the Cowboys as they received Kenny Clark and picks for the future. While the loss of Parsons is undoubtedly a blow, the team seems determined to move forward and continue its success.