As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens in their preseason matchup on August 16, the focus has dramatically shifted from the field to the locker room. Multiple key players are expected to sit out the game — not due to injury or rest, but in a bold show of support for star defender Micah Parsons.
The situation stems from the ongoing contract standoff between Parsons and the Cowboys’ front office. Despite being one of the league’s highest-paid defensive players, Parsons has expressed feeling disrespected and unsupported in the negotiation process. The tension has grown — and now, it’s rippling through the team.
Sources close to the team confirm that several major contributors — including Tyler Smith, DeMarcus Lawrence, Malik Hooker, and others — are opting out of the Ravens game in what is widely interpreted as a stand of unity with Parsons.
Micah, visibly emotional, addressed the situation:
“I don’t want to be the reason the locker room falls apart. But what I’m asking for is fairness — and everyone around here understands that.”
Upon learning that many teammates would not play as a form of support, Parsons added:
“I’m grateful to the guys. What we share isn’t just the game — it’s respect. And that’s what keeps a team alive.”
The coaching staff has yet to issue an official statement, but the message from the players is loud and clear. In a franchise known for its high expectations and passionate fanbase, this growing fracture between locker room and management is becoming the biggest story of the Cowboys’ preseason.
