The Dallas Cowboys defense is loaded with some big-time playmakers and has turned into one of the better units in the NFL the last few seasons. There is a chance they are even better in 2023 with some of the changes that were made on that side of the ball.
Dallas now has two shutdown corners to rely on after acquiring Stephon Gilmore from the Indianapolis Colts in a trade earlier this offseason. He will combine with Trevon Diggs to make arguably the best cornerback duo in the NFL.
The change people could be most excited about involved Micah Parsons. Parsons has quickly put himself in the discussion as one of the best pass rushers in the NFL despite not doing it full-time.
Since being selected 12th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Parsons has filled numerous roles for the Cowboys. He has gotten to rush the passer but also excels in pass coverage and against the run. That versatility has been key to their success since he joined the roster.
However, in 2023, a change is coming for his role. According to Cowboys writer Clarence Hill Jr., via Dov Kleiman on Twitter, Parsons will be bulking up this offseason as he transitions to defensive end full-time. Right now, the plan is for him to work out in Austin away from the team’s offseason program but return during OTA’s.
This is certainly a bold plan given how much Parsons does for the Cowboys’ defense. But, rushing the passer is arguably what he does best. In his first two seasons in the NFL, Parsons has compiled 26.5 sacks, 56 quarterback hits and 33 tackles for loss as he is always in the backfield making plays.
Parsons did note that the weight gain is being done rigidly. He will not surpass 255 pounds but wants a little extra weight if he is playing defensive end exclusively.
Moving Parsons to defensive end full-time is a risky move for the Cowboys. Finding someone to replicate what he did from the second level will not be easy and will certainly take some time to adjust to.
