Terry Bradshaw shockingly backed Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for his controversial decision to trade away star linebacker Micah Parsons.
The Cowboys sent shockwaves through the NFL last month by dealing Parsons to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for two first-round draft picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark.
Green Bay wasted no time securing their new defensive weapon, immediately signing Parsons to a massive four-year, $188 million deal that includes $120 million fully guaranteed.
The contract makes Parsons the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. While the move clearly strengthens Green Bay’s Super Bowl aspirations, Bradshaw defended the Cowboys’ controversial decision on FOX NFL Sunday.
Critics have hammered Jones and Dallas for parting ways with such a talented player. The 2021 first-round selection boasts an impressive resume featuring four Pro Bowl appearances, three All-Pro honors, and Defensive Rookie of the Year recognition.
Throughout his brief but stellar career, Parsons has accumulated 52.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries.
Despite his production, Jones refused to offer top-tier money following big-money extensions for Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb the previous year. Bradshaw supported the Cowboys owner’s choice, pointing to Parsons’ injury concerns as justification.
“I think Jerry Jones did the right thing,” Bradshaw said on FOX NFL Sunday. “I don’t blame him one bit. I would’ve unloaded him.
“Saves me a ton of money on the salary cap, number one. He’s automatically getting two more first round picks to go with the two he’s already got, and who’s to say that end of this year, things don’t work out, somebody’s gonna get traded and pick up another one. Jerry Jones is sitting in the driver’s seat.”
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“And here’s the one thing about Jones. Whether or not Parsons is a difference maker or not, but the injuries, and you tell me that’s no big deal? I disagree.”
He added: “Here’s the thing: Jerry Jones had to answer to nobody to make this trade. It wasn’t the Jimmy Johnson trade when Jimmy moved Walker and they got the six players, and they unloaded the six players, which equaled six draft picks. This is going to be the same thing – good move by Jerry Jones.”
Parsons has been dealing with a back ailment throughout the offseason, though he’s anticipated to take the field against the Detroit Lions in Sunday’s NFC North battle. The extent of his involvement remains uncertain as he prepares for his Packers debut.
His arrival alone will substantially strengthen Green Bay’s defensive unit alongside Rashan Gary, though Parsons’ game-day influence could be restricted. The linebacker may operate under limited snaps, having joined the Packers just days ago and participating in only four restricted practice sessions this week.