Cowboys Secure DaRon Bland with Major Deal After Parsons Trade

The Dallas Cowboys have made a significant move in the wake of trading linebacker Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. By dealing Parsons, the Cowboys freed up approximately $24 million in salary cap space, which they have now allocated towards securing key defensive talent. On August 31, 2025, the team announced a four-year, $92 million contract extension for fourth-year cornerback DaRon Bland, which includes $50 million guaranteed.

The decision to trade Parsons, a two-time first-team All-Pro, was a bold one. He signed a lucrative four-year, $186 million extension with the Packers shortly after the trade. The Cowboys appear to be betting on Bland’s potential, but this move raises questions about the team’s strategy in valuing a player who has had one standout season compared to Parsons’ consistent high-level performance. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Bland’s new contract will position him as the sixth-highest-paid player at his position.

Bland, 26, had an exceptional 2023 season, where he set an NFL record with five pick-sixes over 17 regular-season games. However, his performance dipped in 2024 due to a stress fracture in his foot sustained during training camp. In seven games that season, he recorded no interceptions and allowed a passer rating of 105.7, the lowest of his career, according to Pro Football Reference.

Despite the concerns regarding his recent performance, Cowboys rookie head coach Brian Schottenheimer expressed confidence in Bland’s abilities. “He’s a huge, huge piece for us,” Schottenheimer stated during a press conference. “He has incredible ball skills and instincts. DaRon always has the ability to process things quickly.”

The Cowboys’ gamble on Bland comes with a considerable risk, particularly when considering the immense talent they let go in Parsons. In his four seasons with Dallas, Parsons, the 12th pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, recorded 52.5 sacks and was a central figure in the team’s defense. The question remains whether Bland can replicate his previous success and perform at an All-Pro level once again.

This decision highlights the Cowboys’ long-term vision and their willingness to invest heavily in players they believe can contribute to their success. However, the pressure is now on Bland to deliver results that justify this substantial commitment. If he fails to meet expectations, the Cowboys may find themselves regretting their choice to prioritize his extension over retaining Parsons, a player whose impact on the field is irrefutable.

With the upcoming season just around the corner, all eyes will be on Bland as he attempts to prove that the Cowboys made the right choice in their latest high-stakes gamble.