Micah Parsons is expected to sign a long-term extension with the Dallas Cowboys this offseason, but the timing depends largely on when team owner Jerry Jones decides to engage in negotiations. Parsons has been partially participating in the Cowboys’ offseason workouts, maintaining open communication with head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who has downplayed Parsons’ limited presence during team activities.

The delays in Parsons’ contract talks are not an isolated issue in the NFC East. The Washington Commanders are also dealing with a contract stalemate involving their wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who has been absent from OTAs while pursuing a new deal.

Both Teams Face Challenges with Key Players Missing OTAs Over Contract Disputes

McLaurin’s absence during last week’s practice sessions was immediately linked to his contract negotiations, but this scenario is not unusual among NFL star players who often skip parts of OTAs. Cowboys fans are familiar with such holdouts given Jerry Jones’ history of prolonged contract discussions.

However, McLaurin’s ongoing absence during the third phase of OTAs is a growing concern for the Commanders. As a two-time Pro Bowler and a cornerstone of Washington’s offense, McLaurin contributed significantly last season with 82 receptions, 1,096 yards, and 13 touchdowns, making him a vital component of the team’s passing attack.

Terry McLaurin’s Contract Status and Its Implications for the Commanders

Currently ranking 16th in annual average value and 18th in fully guaranteed money among wide receivers, McLaurin holds only one year remaining on his contract. His performance clearly warrants a new, more lucrative agreement. While the Commanders’ front office has earned praise for turning the roster into an NFC contender under Dan Quinn, the unresolved status of McLaurin’s contract raises questions about the organization’s handling of player negotiations.

McLaurin’s potential holdout is not an unprecedented situation, but given his key role and statistics, a contract in the range of $30 million per year would be reasonable. Even after acquiring Deebo Samuel, McLaurin remains the Commanders’ most productive receiver, accounting for over half of Jayden Daniels’ touchdown receptions last year.

Mirroring Contract Tensions Highlight Challenges in Managing Star Player Deals

The ongoing extension delays for Micah Parsons and the holdout by Terry McLaurin expose similar challenges faced by two NFC East teams in securing contract agreements with their top performers. These developments suggest that Dan Quinn may have brought some of the Cowboys’ approaches to contract negotiations with him to Washington. Both the Cowboys and Commanders must balance player retention with financial commitments to maintain competitiveness as they navigate these complex offseason dynamics.