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Sad Departure: 2 Top Players Depart Dallas Cowboys Due to Contract Disputes
October 12, 2025 — Dallas, TX
The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic franchises in the NFL, are facing a pivotal moment as two of their top players have officially parted ways with the team amid ongoing contract disputes. The unexpected exits of linebacker Micah Parsons and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb have sent shockwaves through the league and left fans stunned just weeks into the 2025 NFL season.
Contract Negotiations Turn Sour
Sources close to the organization report that both players were engaged in long, drawn-out contract talks with the Cowboys front office throughout the offseason. Despite multiple offers and counteroffers, the parties failed to reach agreements that satisfied either player’s demands.
Micah Parsons: A Defensive Powerhouse Lost
Parsons, a two-time All-Pro and former Defensive Rookie of the Year, had been the cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense since being drafted in 2021. His departure is a significant blow to a unit that ranked among the top five in total defense over the past two seasons.
Negotiations reportedly broke down over the length and guaranteed money of the proposed extension. Parsons was believed to be seeking a deal comparable to the record-setting contract signed by edge rusher Nick Bosa in 2024, while the Cowboys were hesitant to commit long-term due to salary cap constraints.
With no resolution in sight, Parsons was eventually traded to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for a first-round pick and a veteran linebacker. The move drew criticism from fans who felt the team should have done more to retain their defensive leader.
CeeDee Lamb: Offensive Firepower Walks Away
CeeDee Lamb, the team’s top wide receiver and Dak Prescott’s favorite target, also opted to leave the Cowboys after failed extension talks. Lamb had just completed a career-best season, finishing in the top five in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. He was widely expected to anchor the Cowboys’ offense for years to come.
However, like Parsons, Lamb reportedly grew frustrated with the team’s unwillingness to match the market rate for elite receivers, especially following new deals signed by players like Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase. Lamb chose to hold out during training camp and eventually requested a trade.
Late last week, the Cowboys announced they had traded Lamb to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for two second-round picks and a conditional third. He is expected to make an immediate impact in Miami’s high-octane offense alongside Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
Fallout in Dallas
The loss of both Parsons and Lamb represents a major setback for a Cowboys team with championship aspirations. Head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledged the challenges ahead but maintained confidence in the roster.
“We’re obviously disappointed to see two great players go,” McCarthy said during a press conference. “But this is the business of football. We have to move forward and focus on the guys we have in the locker room.”
Quarterback Dak Prescott, who has developed strong on-field chemistry with Lamb over the years, expressed his frustration but chose to remain supportive of his teammates.
“Losing CeeDee and Micah hurts — no doubt about it. But we’ve got a job to do, and I believe in this team,” Prescott said.
Looking Ahead
The Cowboys now face the daunting task of retooling their roster midseason. With a 3–2 record and a tough schedule ahead, the pressure is on the front office to make savvy moves and avoid a complete derailment of the 2025 campaign.
Fans, meanwhile, are left wondering what could have been — and whether the team’s handling of contract negotiations has cost them a legitimate shot at a Super Bowl run.
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