Micah Parsons suffered an ankle injury during the Week 4 game against the New York Giants, leaving the Dallas Cowboys in a precarious situation.

The Cowboys need to bounce back after a tough loss to the Detroit Lions in Week 6 of the NFL season.

With a bye week to recover, it seemed like the star defensive player was making strides in healing from his ankle injury and was expected to face the San Francisco 49ers. However, the team decided not to take any risks with his recovery.

Earlier in the week, multiple reports indicated that there was a strong chance Parsons would be ready to play against the 49ers.

His recovery was progressing faster than initially anticipated. While it was originally expected that Parsons would be sidelined for 4 to 6 weeks, it seems like the initial timeline may hold true.

Parsons’ Critical Season and Contract Concerns

This season is pivotal for Micah Parsons, as it marks the final year of his contract with the Dallas Cowboys.

The team’s decision on his renewal is crucial, especially given the recent massive deals made with quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. With salary cap considerations at play, retaining Parsons will be a major factor in the team’s future strategy.

At just 25 years old, Parsons has already established himself as one of the NFL’s most respected pass rushers, boasting an impressive 41.5 sacks over 54 games. His contributions to the defense are undeniable, but ensuring his health and availability is key.

Advice for Parsons Amid Contract Talks

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk offered a strong recommendation to Parsons, suggesting that he should refrain from returning to the field until he is fully healed. Florio emphasized the risk of aggravating the injury, which could potentially sideline Parsons for even more games during this crucial contract year.

“He should have stayed out longer. Now that he’s injured, he should refuse to return until his high ankle sprain is completely healed, or until the Cowboys offer him the contract he deserves,” Florio stated.

Florio further criticized the Cowboys‘ handling of their contract negotiations, pointing out that Parsons had patiently waited for his turn after Prescott and Lamb received their lucrative deals.

“If the Cowboys had signed those contracts earlier, Parsons could have applied more pressure. Now, he should make some noise,” Florio added.

All signs point to Parsons making his return in Week 9, when the Cowboys face the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, November 3. However, many believe that securing his long-term future and fully healing from his injury should take priority.