Cowboys Secure Odighizuwa, But Where’s Parsons’ Payday?

The Dallas Cowboys just locked down a key piece of their defensive line, inking defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to a lucrative four-year, $80 million contract, complete with a hefty $58 million guaranteed and a $20 million signing bonus. News of the deal, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, sent ripples through the NFL, highlighting the Cowboys’ commitment to maintaining a strong defensive front.

Odighizuwa, a rising star in the league, has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His relentless pressure and disruptive presence have made him a nightmare for opposing offenses, causing sleepless nights for both players and coaching staffs. The Cowboys’ decision to secure his services long-term is a testament to his value and potential.

The team was reportedly prepared to use the franchise tag on Odighizuwa if a long-term agreement couldn’t be reached by the deadline, underscoring their determination to keep him in Dallas. At just 26 years old, Odighizuwa represents a significant investment in the future of the Cowboys’ defense. His 54 quarterback pressures last year, second only to Micah Parsons, demonstrate his impact on the field.

This move is undeniably smart. Odighizuwa is precisely the kind of player that a franchise hoping to contend should lock up. He’s young, productive, and a critical component of the defensive scheme. He complements the other talent on the line, creating opportunities for his teammates to shine. Securing his future with the Cowboys provides stability and reinforces the team’s commitment to building a dominant defense.

However, the news of Odighizuwa’s extension has ignited a burning question within the Cowboys universe and beyond: What is the status of Micah Parsons’ contract? Is a deal imminent? Are the Cowboys on the verge of securing their generational talent for years to come?

Parsons, the electrifying pass rusher who has taken the NFL by storm, is widely considered one of the league’s most dynamic and impactful players. His speed, agility, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback have made him a game-changer on the defensive side of the ball. He consistently draws double teams, creating opportunities for his teammates, including Odighizuwa, to thrive.

The consensus is that Parsons is destined for an even larger contract than Odighizuwa. His unparalleled talent and impact on the game demand a deal that reflects his status as one of the NFL’s elite players. So, the question lingers: when will Parsons get his well-deserved payday?

To some observers, the situation is perplexing. Parsons is a generational talent, a player around whom a franchise can build for years to come. Why haven’t the Cowboys already locked him up with a long-term extension? The argument is simple: make Parsons the highest-paid edge player in the league. Seems straightforward, doesn’t it?

Yet, the silence on the Parsons front is deafening. The wait is agonizing for fans eager to see their star player secured for the foreseeable future. While the Odighizuwa deal is undoubtedly a positive development, it only intensifies the focus on Parsons’ contract situation.

It’s not a matter of diminishing Odighizuwa’s accomplishments. He is, without a doubt, an outstanding player deserving of his new contract. However, the sheer magnitude of Parsons’ talent and importance to the Cowboys’ success makes his contract extension a far more pressing issue.

The Dallas Morning News recently reported that the Cowboys and Parsons have engaged in "general conversations" regarding a contract extension. However, these discussions need to move beyond the generalities and delve into the specifics. They need to become "extremely complete," as complete as humanly possible.

Despite missing four games last season, Parsons still managed to record an impressive 12 sacks. His ability to consistently pressure the quarterback, even when facing double teams, is a testament to his exceptional skill and determination.

The Cowboys have demonstrated a willingness to invest in their star players. They inked quarterback Dak Prescott to a massive $240 million deal and secured wide receiver CeeDee Lamb with a $136 million contract. These moves signal the organization’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team by retaining its key contributors.

So, the question remains: Is Parsons next in line for a lucrative extension? What are the Cowboys waiting for? The clock is ticking, and the longer the delay, the more anxiety grows among fans and analysts alike. The Cowboys have a golden opportunity to secure their defensive cornerstone for the long haul. They must seize it. The future of the Cowboys defense, and perhaps the team’s Super Bowl aspirations, may depend on it.

The Odighizuwa deal is a victory, but the Parsons question looms larger than ever. Dallas: the fans are waiting. Make it happen.