Micah Parsons Trade Saga: Raiders, Bears, Panthers, and Bucs Emerge as Possible Suitors in Contract Drama
The relationship between two-time first-team All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons and the Dallas Cowboys has reached a boiling point, with Parsons publicly requesting a trade — a move that sent shockwaves across the NFL. In response, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones dismissed the demand as nothing more than a typical bump in the road during tense contract negotiations. However, with the trade request now in the public sphere, the league’s attention has turned to which teams might seriously pursue the elite pass rusher if Dallas ever puts him on the market.
At the top of the list are the Las Vegas Raiders, who find themselves nearly $40 million under the salary cap. With Pete Carroll now at the helm and Geno Smith added to the mix, Vegas is clearly done with rebuilding and ready to compete. While star pass rusher Maxx Crosby has carried the defensive load in recent years, he’s lacked support. Bringing in Parsons would not only boost the pass rush but signal a full commitment to contending now.
The Chicago Bears are another potential suitor, especially as they look to build around Caleb Williams in his second season. Parsons’ arrival would bring balance to a team hungry for postseason relevance. With eight picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, Chicago has the trade capital to get a deal done and the motivation to spend big.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers, despite being far from title contention, have made aggressive attempts to improve. Their failed pursuits of DK Metcalf and Milton Williams show intent, and with $19 million in cap space, they may be willing to meet Parsons’ financial demands to kickstart a new era.
Finally, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, fresh off a 10–7 season and led by a revitalized Baker Mayfield, could be just one defensive piece away from real contention. Historically unafraid of blockbuster moves, Tampa might see Parsons as the missing link to another deep playoff run.
If Dallas truly makes Parsons available, a fierce bidding war is almost guaranteed.
