Is This the Year Micah Parsons Wins Defensive Player of the Year?
Amidst the currently ongoing contract negotiations, Micah Parsons is primed to take command of the Cowboys' defense. Early signs of leadership are starting to show as Parsons attended voluntary workouts where, in the past, he hadn’t. The three-time All-Pro has made significant progress in his career and is widely regarded as one of the top defensive players in the NFL. The only individual achievement Parsons lacks is winning Defensive Player of the Year. Entering a season with what looks to be a lot against Dallas and Parsons both on the field and off the field, he could have the chance to cement his name in NFL history.
Micah has been a consensus front-runner for the award ever since he was a rookie in 2021. His rookie year involved playing both as a pass rusher and a linebacker, recording 12 sacks, and finishing second to T.J. Watt, which shocked a lot of people. In his sophomore season, entering with many expectations, he would finish as runner-up once again, this time behind San Francisco 49er Nick Bosa. In his third year, he would not be runner-up again, but he did finish in the top three for the award, ending behind Myles Garrett and Watt once more. Last year, due to injury, Parsons didn’t rank among the top voters for the award, yet he remains a premier contender for it each year, despite not having won. Now, after years of competing, could this be the year Parsons wins the award?
The departure of DeMarcus Lawrence plays a significant role in Parsons' performance and chances to win the award this year. With no other definitive star on the Cowboys' defensive line, the burden Parsons will need to shoulder this season will surpass anything he has faced in his career. Additionally, Parsons has been expressing a positive attitude on social media, indicating how motivated and determined he is as he approaches this new season. If the Cowboys reach the postseason with Parsons serving as the main catalyst for the defense, he will undoubtedly be in contention once again with hopes of winning the award and the Super Bowl.
