The Dallas Cowboys‘ 2024 NFL season may have ended in disappointment with a 23-19 loss to the Washington Commanders in Week 18, but Micah Parsons had a reason to smile just days later.
The All-Pro linebacker attended the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Orange Bowl to cheer on his alma mater, the Penn State Nittany Lions, as they faced the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Parsons was more than just a spectator at the high-stakes matchup in Miami. He reconnected with current Penn State defensive standout Abdul Carter and former Nittany Lions great LaVar Arrington on the sidelines before the game.
The connection between the school’s past and present stars were evident, with Parsons providing vocal support for Carter throughout the game.
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Carter, a junior defensive end, didn’t disappoint. The 6-foot-3, 259-pound force was relentless in the first half, consistently disrupting Notre Dame’s offensive backfield.
His performance caught Parsons‘ attention, prompting the Cowboys star to share his admiration on social media.
“It’s only right the NFL lets me and Abdul play together!!” Parsons posted on X, envisioning a dream scenario where he and Carter would form a formidable defensive duo in the pros.
A rising star
Carter has been a dominant presence in college football throughout the 2024 season. Heading into the Orange Bowl, he had recorded 40 tackles, 11 sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Known for his quickness, power, and relentless motor, Carter‘s skill set has drawn comparisons to Parsons himself.
Projected as a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Carter’s stock continues to rise. Many scouts view him as one of the best defensive prospects in recent years, making it unlikely that he will fall far enough in the draft for the Cowboys-currently holding the No. 12 pick-to secure him.
The idea of Parsons and Carter joining forces on the Cowboys’ defense is tantalizing for fans and analysts alike.
If Jerry Jones and Mike McCarthy were able to pair these two explosive pass rushers, it would likely create one of the most fearsome defensive frontlines in the NFL. However, Dallas may need to trade up in the draft to make Parsons’ dream a reality.
