Micah Parsons Isn’t the Only Cowboys Player Who Needs an Extension
As the Dallas Cowboys continue their pursuit of Super Bowl contention, much of the attention this offseason has been focused on one of their standout defensive players, Micah Parsons. The 2021 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and two-time Pro Bowl linebacker has quickly become one of the best defenders in the league. Parsons is not only the face of the Cowboys’ defense, but he’s also among the most dynamic players in the entire NFL. However, while Parsons certainly deserves a lucrative contract extension, he isn’t the only player on the roster in need of one.
Parsons is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and the expectation is that the Cowboys will soon make him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league. His exceptional play on the field—racking up sacks, tackles for loss, and forced fumbles—along with his leadership in the locker room, make him an invaluable asset for Dallas. It’s easy to see why extending Parsons would be a top priority for the Cowboys.
But amid all the focus on Parsons, there are other key players who also need extensions in order for the Cowboys to maintain a competitive roster moving forward. One of the most pressing situations involves wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Since being drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Lamb has emerged as one of the premier wide receivers in the league. His ability to make contested catches, his exceptional route running, and his ability to produce big plays have made him quarterback Dak Prescott’s go-to target. In 2023, Lamb surpassed 1,300 receiving yards, further cementing his status as a top-tier wideout. Given that he is entering the final year of his rookie contract, the Cowboys need to lock up Lamb before he hits the open market.
The situation with Lamb mirrors that of Parsons, with both players expected to command top-of-the-market contracts. If the Cowboys fail to secure an extension for Lamb, they risk losing a player who is integral to their offensive success. As Dallas aims to contend for a Super Bowl, the importance of keeping a top receiver like Lamb cannot be overstated.
Another player in need of an extension is linebacker Leighton Vander Esch. Although Vander Esch hasn’t been as prominent as Parsons, he remains a key piece of the Cowboys’ defense. Vander Esch has battled injuries over the course of his career, but when healthy, he is an effective linebacker who provides stability in the middle of the defense. The Cowboys have already invested in their defensive line, and locking up Vander Esch to a long-term deal would ensure that the linebacker corps remains strong for the future.
Finally, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence is another player whose contract situation deserves attention. Lawrence, who has been a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ pass rush for several years, is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season. Although he is no longer in his prime, Lawrence remains a productive player and a leader on defense. Extending Lawrence would provide stability to a defensive line that has been one of the Cowboys’ strongest units.
While Micah Parsons is undoubtedly the star of the Cowboys’ defense and is deserving of an extension, the team must also consider locking up CeeDee Lamb, Leighton Vander Esch, and DeMarcus Lawrence. These players are all integral to the Cowboys’ chances of sustained success, and the team would be wise to address their contract situations sooner rather than later. If the Cowboys want to maintain a championship-caliber roster, keeping their key players happy and under contract should be a top priority.
