Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons expressed frustration with the media for how his comments about head coach Mike McCarthy were portrayed following the team’s disappointing loss in Week 10. The Cowboys, who have had a tough season thus far, found themselves at the center of controversy after Parsons’ remarks were interpreted as being critical of McCarthy’s leadership.
Parsons sought to set the record straight on Monday during the latest episode of his podcast, clarifying that he never intended his comments to be seen as a criticism of McCarthy. Instead, Parsons explained that his words were taken out of context and misconstrued by the media.
“I never once threw, or even intended to throw Mike McCarthy under the bus,” Parsons said. “The question that was asked was about here and the Dallas Cowboys, whether I saw Mike McCarthy in our future. I said, ‘That’s above my pay grade.’ It wasn’t meant to imply anything negative about Coach McCarthy.”
Parsons elaborated further, explaining that his initial comments were intended to draw attention to the veteran players on the Cowboys roster—players who have dedicated years to the organization and may be nearing the end of their careers. He mentioned that his focus was on honoring those players, not questioning McCarthy’s role or future with the team.
“All coaching aside, Mike [McCarthy] can leave and go wherever he wants,” Parsons said in his initial comments. “The guys I kind of feel bad for are guys like Zack Martin and others who might be on their last year or on their way out. That’s who I wanted to hold the trophy for. You want to win games and do great things with those types of legends who have put in more time and work than Mike McCarthy ever did.”
Parsons emphasized that his comments were about the players who have been the backbone of the team for years, not about undermining the coach.
He wanted to express his appreciation for veteran teammates like Zack Martin, who have given everything to the franchise, and how important it would be for him to share success with them.
RELATED: Micah Parsons’ Brother Believes Former NFL QB Dan Orlovsky Hates Dak Prescott
On Monday, Mike McCarthy also addressed the situation with the media, making it clear that he and Parsons had spoken about the incident and cleared the air. McCarthy indicated that the conversation between them was constructive and that they were able to handle the situation professionally.
“Micah and I had a conversation this morning about it, and we handled those things as men should handle it,” McCarthy told reporters. “That wasn’t his intent, but that’s something he can talk on. We’re all working towards the same goal here, and it’s important that we understand each other as a team.”
The Dallas Cowboys have faced a challenging season, with their latest loss—a 34-6 blowout defeat at home to the Philadelphia Eagles—dropping their record to 3-7.
The struggles at AT&T Stadium have been particularly frustrating, as the team has yet to secure a home win this season. With their next matchup against the Houston Texans on Monday night, the Cowboys are looking to snap their losing streak and find some momentum for the remainder of the season.
Parsons’ comments, while initially controversial, have brought to light the passion and commitment he has for the success of his teammates, especially those who have been with the organization for many years.
Both Parsons and McCarthy are focused on moving forward, putting this minor controversy behind them, and doing everything they can to turn the season around.
The Cowboys may be struggling, but the hope is that the team can rally together and make the most of the remaining games.
The conversations between Parsons and McCarthy illustrate the importance of communication, respect, and unity in navigating the challenges of an NFL season.
