So, much for America’s Team, huh? The Cowboys are sitting at 3-5, but the hopes of a playoff season (let alone SB) are fading away. Sure, it’s not all doom and gloom—a 7-2 run could still put them at 10-7, which would at least keep the dream alive. But, as you can bet, Jerry Jones and Mike McCarthy are itching to get back on track. They just need the pieces to hold together. And that starts with one guy: Micah Parsons.

Now, about all those trade rumors swirling around Parsons? As you can guess, JJ did shut those down fast on @1053thefan: “He’s integral to our future, so no is the big answer… We haven’t had one conversation ever about not having Micah Parsons on the team. Ever.” You get the vibe, right? Losing Parsons isn’t even on the table. Dallas is keeping him right where he belongs.

And why not? If you see, in the hindsight, it’s not like things have been smooth for the Cowboys lately. Heading into week 10 against the Eagles, they’re nursing a three-game skid, and their last loss to the Falcons stung—27-21. How worse can it get? You ask. Dak Prescott went down with a hamstring injury. It’s like every week brings a new challenge for Dallas.

As for the odds? Let’s just say they’re not in the Cowboys’ favor for a playoff spot. But there’s some good news: Parsons was back on the practice field Wednesday as a limited participant. Could we see him suit up Sunday?

Yeah, it was not just about Parsons’ trade talks, but his injury update as well had Dallas on its toes. The star LB was out since week 4. Remember the ankle sprain he suffered against the Giants (yup, during one of the 3 wins for the Cowboys)?

The top pass rusher was out and so was their form out of the window. Sure, Carl Lawson proved that he had what it takes to cover in one of the few good outings he had in week 9. But few good outings, compared to consistency. Many would choose the latter. And now that Parsons is back, he has addressed it all—his way.

Micah Parsons’ focus is on the gridiron action, not the chit-chats!

So, how’s Micah Parsons feeling ahead the Eagles game at the AT&T Stadium? Optimistic, to say the least. “I feel great,” he said. “My chances are high to play, but we’re just trying to see how practice goes and where’s the talent at.” Sounds like he’s all in, but he’s realistic too because as he put it the injury has set him into a restart. So, it’s like kicking off from the basics. Parsons got everything on lock to the T. He’s working to shake off the rust, get his rhythm back, and yeah, he admits—his lungs are feeling it!

Don’t worry, he also addressed the rumors. When we said all, we meant it. He acknowledged the chatter in the media and online about Dallas possibly trading him. Wild, right? But Parsons? Not bothered. Moreso, he switched off the talks by saying, “Me and Jerry love each other.” He trusts Jones would give him a heads-up before anyone else. And to be honest, that’s the sign of an intact franchise—no drama, just mutual respect. Parsons has a deep loyalty to Dallas, and he’s clearly not letting outside noise mess with his focus.

I mean, sure, he wants the big bucks too. But he does not need no antics to get the deal signed and sealed. Friends, you know! Parsons is up for a major payday soon, and he’s got his eyes on becoming the highest-paid defender in the league. While his numbers might not be hitting those sky-high expectations just yet, his career stats are no joke—153 solo tackles and 41.5 sacks in 54 games. It’s no wonder Jones is keeping him around. Dallas already gave Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb massive contracts, and it seems like Parsons is next in line.

In the end, Parsons is focused on what matters: the game, not the gossip. So, while the Eagles are soaring, they might want to watch out for where they fly. They wouldn’t want to glide into this clash with over-confidence.