Micah Parsons' pressure rate highlights Cowboys' devastating loss in trade

The Dallas Cowboys trading away Micah Parsons was a massive loss for the defense, but one stat highlights just how brutal of a loss it was for the team.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons sacks Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell at FedEx Field | Brad Mills-Imagn Images

By now, Dallas Cowboys fans are beginning to move on from Micah Parsons, but since this is the internet, certain comments will inevitably go viral and catch everyone's attention.

During Saturday's slate of college football games, one graphic began making the rounds that had Cowboys Nation in its feelings once again.

The graphic focused on pressure rate on first and second downs (non-passing downs) since Parsons came into the NFL in 2021 as the No. 12 overall pick in the NFL draft. To put it simply, it hurts.

MORE: Cowboys predicted to have swiss cheese defense after Micah Parsons trade

Parsons is head and shoulders above anyone else in the league in the category, which shows just how devastating of a loss the trade was for Dallas. Parsons' pressure rate in those situations was 15.30 percent. The second-best? Cincinnati Bengals star Trey Hendrickson at 11.80 percent.

dude come on pic.twitter.com/wqEUDXcp9z

— Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) August 30, 2025

As ESPN's Ben Solak points out, "The difference between Parsons and [former Defensive Player of the Year Myles] Garrett is the same as the difference between Garrett and Bud Dupree (63rd)."

Ouch.

MORE: Dallas Cowboys' starting defensive ends on first depth chart of post-Micah Parsons era

Everyone knows that Parsons can change games, but the graphic really puts everything into perspective. If there's any silver lining, it's that the Cowboys are deep on the EDGE and will have a rotation that can keep everyone fresh.

Unfortunately, Dallas doesn't have anyone who can impact or change a game single-handedly like Parsons was able to do. We are going to learn a lot of the defense this season.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons celebrates his sack against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium | Joe Rondone / The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY NETWORK

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