FRISCO — The Dallas Cowboys reached another milestone for the offseason Tuesday with mandatory minicamp officially underway. There will be a more keen eyes on the Cowboys from outside The Star over the next few months given the major roster and coaching staff changes of the last few months.
Overall, there is certainly a new energy about the Cowboys, stemming directly from Brian Schottenheimer. The first-year head coach was quick to mention and credit his team for perfect attendance on the first day of minicamp.
Despite the good vibes of this new culture in Dallas, one thing continues to linger over the locker room as offseason activities ramp up. The Cowboys have dragged their feet once again in a major contract negotiation this time in their dealings with Micah Parsons.
Dallas' defensive star hoped to have his extension signed and done months ago but the two sides are no closer than they were when the offseason started. But to his credit, Parsons has gone about the matter in a mature way, showing face at workouts on Tuesday and providing an update on the situation.
“I’m still hanging tight,'' he said. "I understand it’s up to (Jerry Jones), he gives the green light on everything. So hopefully something is done by next month.”
Next month the Cowboys will make their yearly pilgrimage to Oxnard, California, for training camp. Parsons plans to be in attendance though his level of participation depends on how negotiations progress.
"Yeah, some people like to take their time more than others you can't rush the process. (Jerry Jones) wants the deal to go as cleanly as possible. I want the deal to go as cleanly as possible."
It's an unfortunate reality that the deal - which may end in Micah becoming a $200 Million Man - has taken as long as it has to come together. Parsons has championed the Cowboys since his arrival and has been nothing short of a game-wrecking force on the field.
One would think such ability would change the course of business for the Cowboys in this case. Instead, it appears both sides are headed for the same trajectory of uncertainty that lingered with both Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb a year ago.
The Cowboys have maintained their interest in getting a deal done but have not put those words into any actions. As long as this carries on it's hard not to wonder when Parsons' patience will start to wear thin.
But so far? Patience has been a virtue.