Micah Parsons, the Dallas Cowboys' three-time All-Pro edge rusher, has been absent from the field since sustaining a high ankle sprain during the second half of Week 4. With the Cowboys' defense visibly faltering in his absence, the anticipation surrounding his comeback is palpable among fans and analysts alike as he eyes a potential return in Week 10 against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Impact of Absence
The Cowboys' defense, typically a robust force, has shown signs of vulnerability without Parsons. They have allowed nine passing touchdowns in 2024 and have yet to secure an interception. The disruption in their previously formidable quarterback pressure rate, which has plummeted to 34.4%, now positions them just 17th in the league. This decline is mirrored in their standings for takeaways, where they are tied for the fourth-fewest in the NFL with a meager total of five.
"Obviously I felt like it's tough just because I feel like I can make an impact in those games," Parsons said, reflecting on watching the defense struggle. "Played [Falcons quarterback] Kirk Cousins before, had a lot of success. 49ers, tough watch. I think there's games where we're losing by six points, and I definitely believe I could make a difference in those games."
Injury and Recovery
Parsons' recovery has been intricate. An MRI revealed the complex nature of his high ankle sprain, shedding light on why his rehabilitation took longer than initially expected. "I didn’t [think I would be out this long]," Parsons confessed. "I mean, as soon as I got hurt I was like, 'Man I can come back against Detroit [in Week 6] right?'"
Despite the setbacks, there is an air of optimism surrounding Parsons' return to the gridiron. "You know my chance [to play this week] is high," Parsons shared. "But we’re just trying to see how the practice week goes, see where the challenges are at, seeing what measures we got to take to see how we want to play this game."
Preparing for Return
The edge rusher is anticipated to participate in the team's Thursday padded practice, marking a critical step in assessing his readiness for Week 10. "Yeah, high ankle's those lag on the more you cut on it and bang on it. You just build a tolerance. It's just one of those things," he admitted, acknowledging the complexities of returning from such an injury. Yet his determination is unwavering. "Yeah, I just have to go full go. I got to be back in pads," Parsons emphasized.
His return could be pivotal, potentially revitalizing the Cowboys' defensive line and helping them regain their aggressive edge. "Once I’m playing, I'm playing. That's just the competitor in me," he asserted, underscoring his passion and commitment to making an impact.
Looking Forward
The Cowboys are hopeful that Parsons' return will ignite a much-needed resurgence. His presence on the field has the potential to boost morale and improve overall performance, particularly against an Eagles team renowned for their formidable offense. With their playoff hopes still very much alive, Dallas will be eager to claw back into the top rankings, and Parsons could be the key to that comeback.
As the Cowboys prepare for their crucial Week 10 matchup, all eyes will be on the practice sessions leading up to the game, waiting to see if Parsons can once again anchor the defense as he has done so effectively in the past. The team is undoubtedly banking on his return bringing about a shift in momentum, aiming to turn the tide in a season filled with challenges.