Cowboys' Defensive Linchpin Micah Parsons Eyes Return After Sustained Absence
The Dallas Cowboys' defense might soon welcome back its star edge rusher, Micah Parsons, who has been sidelined since sustaining a high ankle sprain in Week 4. The injury, which significantly extended his expected recovery time, revealed its complexity through an MRI, keeping Parsons off the field longer than anticipated. As the Cowboys prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 10, Parsons is optimistic about his chances of returning to action.
“You know my chance [to play this week] is high,” Parsons shared, discussing his prospects. “But we’re just trying to see how the practice week goes, see where the challenges are at, seeing what measures we got to take to see how we want to play this game.” The All-Pro edge rusher's absence has been deeply felt, with the Cowboys struggling on defense, allowing nine passing touchdowns and failing to secure a single interception in 2024.
Parsons, a three-time All-Pro, is no stranger to overcoming challenges on the field. “Yeah, high ankle's those lag on the more you cut on it and bang on it. You just build a tolerance. It's just one of those things," he admitted, acknowledging the intricacies involved in returning from such an injury. Despite the physical hurdles, Parsons remains determined, emphasizing, “Yeah, I just have to go full go. I got to be back in pads.”
Since his departure in Week 4, the Cowboys' defensive stats have reflected a noticeable dip in performance. Their quarterback pressure rate has declined to 34.4%, ranking 17th in the league. Furthermore, the team is tied for the fourth-fewest takeaways in the NFL this season, with only five. Parsons, known for his ability to disrupt passing games, recognizes the impact his presence—or lack thereof—has on the field. “Obviously I felt like it's tough just because I feel like I can make an impact in those games,” he noted. “Played [Falcons quarterback] Kirk Cousins before, had a lot of success. 49ers, tough watch. I think there's games where we're losing by six points, and I definitely believe I could make a difference in those games.”
Parsons' competitive spirit shines through as he prepares to participate in Thursday’s padded practice, aiming to assess his readiness for a return against the Eagles. "Once I’m playing, I'm playing. That's just the competitor in me," he asserted with determination. His potential return promises a much-needed boost to the Cowboys' defense, which has found itself in difficult positions in his absence.
The timeline for Parsons' recovery wasn't as swift as he had initially hoped. Reflecting on his injury, he expressed his eagerness to return early: “I didn’t [think I would be out this long]. I mean, as soon as I got hurt I was like, 'Man I can come back against Detroit [in Week 6] right?’” The reality of his injury, however, required a more extended period of rest and rehabilitation, testing his patience and resolve.
Awaiting Micah Parsons' return brings a tangible sense of anticipation, not just among Cowboys fans but throughout the league. His return could significantly enhance the Cowboys' defensive prowess and fortify their efforts as they advance through the season. As Parsons continues to progress through recovery, the Cowboys' defensive unit prepares for the potential return of its formidable leader, anxiously awaiting the moment when he can once again exert his influence on the field.