The Dallas Cowboys face a defensive identity crisis heading into the season after trading away their most dominant player.
Micah Parsons anchored the unit, and his departure to the Green Bay Packers leaves massive questions about how Dallas will function.
The timing makes it even more challenging with the Philadelphia Eagles awaiting in the NFL opener.
The Eagles bring a physical running attack and Jalen Hurts’ dual-threat capabilities to provide a difficult test for the Cowboys’ revamped defense.
Former Cowboys defensive end Marcus Spears recently highlighted the biggest concern facing Dallas after the trade.
“Well, I know one d*** question they better not have, that’s stopping the run. And they come out the gate with one of the most difficult teams to try to show your new piece against in bringing in Kenny Clark. Listen, this is going to be a challenge,” Spears said.
"I know one damn question they better not have and that's stopping the run." 😭
—@mspears96 on what questions the Cowboys face come Thursday pic.twitter.com/D7CH4JuRkj
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) September 2, 2025
Clark was acquired in the trade to improve the run defense, but the Cowboys will need answers on third down without Parsons.
Marshawn Kneeland and Donovan Ezeiruaku may get opportunities, but Spears emphasized that no single defender should be expected to replicate the All-Pro’s game-changing impact.
Quarterback Dak Prescott has called for team unity while expressing confidence despite losing such a key piece.
However, Cowboys fans will continue monitoring how Dallas plans to compensate for this significant departure.
After seeking a new deal from the Cowboys for months, Parsons landed a record-setting contract with the Packers that made him the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history.
The Cowboys must now prove their defense can reinvent itself and stay competitive in the NFC East.
Success will likely depend on collective effort rather than individual dominance as they attempt to replace their defensive cornerstone.
NEXT: CeeDee Lamb Reveals Honest Thoughts On Micah Parsons Trade