The Dallas Cowboys have built a reputation for taking risks on star potential—sometimes reaping rewards, other times facing setbacks.
As they aim for another postseason run, they may need to embrace even bolder moves, including exploring quarterback options.
Despite securing Dak Prescott on a four-year, $240 million deal through 2028, the Cowboys recently lost backup Cooper Rush to the Ravens. Meanwhile, Trey Lance, once seen as a future star, remains without a contract.
This signals the Cowboys’ ongoing pursuit of young quarterback talent, and according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, they are a “team to watch” in a potential trade for Patriots QB Joe Milton.
“The Patriots are exploring a trade. I’m told several teams are interested. One team to potentially watch for is the Dallas Cowboys because they are looking for a good backup, a young backup with upside they may not get in the draft, maybe they get in a trade.”
Acquiring Joe Milton this offseason would give the Cowboys three years to develop and evaluate their new quarterback prospect.
While the Patriots have their franchise QB in Drake Maye, they may be reluctant to part with a talent as electrifying as Milton.
However, a compelling offer could change their stance, with ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reporting that New England is seeking a third-round pick.
Predicting what a new contract for Micah Parsons could look like
Recent discussions have surfaced regarding a potential contract extension for Micah Parsons. A series of social media exchanges between NFL Network’s Jane Slater and Terence Parsons, Micah’s brother, hinted that negotiations have at least begun.
However, national media reports suggest that these talks have not yet gained significant traction.
Parsons has earned his place among the league’s elite defenders. With four Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro honors (2021 & 2022), he has recorded 52.5 sacks in his first four seasons—ranking sixth all-time in that category.
His impact rivals that of DeMarcus Ware, making a contract extension a priority for the Cowboys.
The current market for elite edge rushers sets the benchmark for Parsons’ potential deal. Myles Garrett recently signed a four-year, $160 million contract with Cleveland, averaging $40 million per year. Other top defenders, such as Maxx Crosby ($35M per year) and Nick Bosa ($34M per year), have also secured lucrative contracts.
Given Parsons’ versatility and age advantage over players like Garrett, his next deal will likely exceed these figures.
One option for Dallas is a short-term, high-guarantee contract similar to Crosby’s. A three-year, $112.5 million deal with $101.25 million guaranteed would allow Parsons to secure financial stability while maintaining flexibility for a future renegotiation during his prime.
Alternatively, the Cowboys could commit long-term and reset the market by offering Parsons a five-year, $225 million deal at $45 million per year, with 75% of the contract guaranteed ($168.75 million).
This approach would ensure Parsons remains in Dallas for the foreseeable future while allowing the team to manage cap space effectively as the league’s salary cap continues to rise.
