The Dallas Cowboys traded edge rusher Micah Parsons over two months ago, but new details about the deal continue to emerge. According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the Cowboys included a unique provision in the trade that will keep Parsons out of the NFC East for the next few years, effectively protecting Dallas from facing their former star in divisional matchups.
The clause prevents the Green Bay Packers, who acquired Parsons, from trading him to any of the Cowboys’ NFC East rivals—including the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, and New York Giants. If the Packers were to make such a move, they would owe Dallas a first-round draft pick in 2028.
While it may seem like an unlikely scenario, this “poison pill” provision was a smart move by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. It safeguards the team from an opponent in their own division swooping in and acquiring an elite pass rusher who could significantly impact future games. Essentially, it discourages the Packers from flipping Parsons to a division rival by attaching a costly penalty.
Parsons isn’t expected to be a short-term player for Green Bay. The star pass rusher recently signed a four-year extension, and the Packers appear committed to keeping him long-term. Interestingly, the poison pill clause is reportedly set to expire before the final two years of his contract, giving some flexibility down the line.
The clause applies both ways. The Cowboys are similarly restricted from trading defensive tackle Kenny Clark to any NFC North team without owing the Packers a 2028 first-round pick.
In reality, there’s little chance the Packers will trade away Parsons anytime soon. He’s in his prime and among the best defensive players in the league. Giving up two first-round picks—and possibly more—would be a steep price for a player the team isn’t treating as a rental.
While the poison pill provision is making headlines, it’s unlikely to come into play. Nevertheless, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys successfully protected their interests with this clever contractual safeguard. In hindsight, it might be the smartest aspect of the entire Micah Parsons trade decision.
https://cowboyswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/cowboys/2025/11/09/dallas-cowboys-gm-jerry-jones-made-sure-no-nfc-east-rival-could-trade-for-micah-parsons/87183210007/