Give an expansion team Micah Parsons as their defensive cornerstone and they will be set with a one-man wrecking crew.
The former 2021 first-round pick has generated 149 combined tackles, 26.5 sacks, 33 tackles for loss, 56 quarterback hits, six pass breakups, six forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries, one of which he has returned for a touchdown.
Still, Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy believes there is another dimension the two-time first-team All-Pro can tap into.
“I think individually he will always be extremely impactful, and that’s why it’s important for us to stay focused on creating as many of those opportunities for him, and I think that’s the whole conversation of where he’s going to line up,” McCarthy told reporters at organized team activities June 1. “So, and I’m just telling you from an offensive perspective when you line up a premier player up in the same spot, it’s easier to apply help there.”
McCarthy saw as coach of the Green Bay Packers how explosive outside linebacker Clay Matthews was as a rookie. Matthews followed up a 10-sack rookie season, which was good enough to earn a Pro Bowl, with a stellar second year. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers would move around Matthews and allow him to attack from different positions. Matthews followed up with 13.5 sacks, a first-team All-Pro, and was integral in helping the Packers win Super Bowl XLV.
The Cowboys have seen defensive coordinator Dan Quinn similarly scheme Parsons around the field to provide better pass rush opportunities.
Parsons’ last level of greatness will be how many opportunities he can create for his teammates, according to McCarthy.
Said McCarthy: “Impact players not only affect the game with their individual production, but it’s really always being aware of where he is will definitely create opportunities for other guys.”
The Parsons effect has been felt even in small doses. Dallas was tied for the 13th-most sacks in 2021, but finished No. 3 in 2022. The Cowboys also led the NFL in takeaways in each of Parsons’ two seasons.
If creating for others is an element Parsons can influence, then the former 2021 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year should be able to hone it.
“He’s going to compete at everything that he does,” said McCarthy. “That’s just the way he’s wired up obviously with the athletic and physical gifts that he has. But his drive and competitive spirit is as good as I’ve seen in a young player.”
