The Brian Schottenheimer era for the Dallas Cowboys is officially underway with OTAs beginning at The Star, and one player many were interested to see attend was Micah Parsons.
With his contract situation not resolved, some thought Parsons might skip the voluntary workouts while he awaits his new deal - he didn't.
Micah knows what is at stake this offseason, and being a new leader of the locker room, it was important to set an example for others to follow, and Schottenheimer detailed why it was crucial to have No. 11 in the building.
"The first couple days we're doing some team-building things," Schottenheimer said. "We've spoken very openly about trying to create one of the greatest cultures in professional sports, Micah is going to be a leader for us, Micah wants to be a leader for us. I felt like it was really important for him to be here to begin that process, and again, it's a voluntary camp, but the fact that he did, that means a lot to me."
Micah Parsons And Brian Schottenheimer
Micah Parsons And Brian Schottenheimer
Tony Fisher
So Micah has at least made his presence known at OTAs, which in itself is a big deal given he isn't usually one to be involved.
But there are new teammates and coaches with whom to build chemistry, not to mention learning Matt Eberflus' playbook, so Parsons is doing his part early on.
"He's been in and out some, but when he's here, he's been great," Schottenheimer added. "Again, it's all voluntary.”
Micah is conducting himself the way a leader should, and with an opportunity to really make his mark on this team, No. 11 is stepping up.
Yes, it's early days, but Schotty is thrilled with what he's seeing.