After missing two games due to a high ankle sprain, Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons is uncertain about his availability for Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers.
“It’s still up in the air,” Parsons said on Monday, as reported by DLLS Sports’ Joseph Hoyt. He emphasized the importance of consulting with Cowboys director of rehab Britt Brown, the coaching staff, and head coach Mike McCarthy before making a decision. “They want to ensure that, with so many games left, I return at my best. Sometimes, it’s not just the player’s decision; it’s the higher-ups.”
Despite the uncertainty, Parsons expressed optimism about his recovery and indicated he would push to return. “My hopes are always very high,” he said. “I love great challenges and overcoming odds. I’m going to discuss this with my trainers and coaching staff.”
Parsons sustained the injury in the fourth quarter of the Cowboys’ 20-15 win against the New York Giants in Week 4. He had an impressive 82.4 Pro Football Focus grade and recorded 21 pressures in his first four games.
The Cowboys managed to win against the Pittsburgh Steelers (20-17) in Week 5 without Parsons, but his absence was felt during a disappointing Week 6 loss to the Detroit Lions, where they were outmatched 47-9, allowing 492 yards and failing to force any turnovers.
Currently, the Cowboys (3-3) sit third in the NFC East behind the Philadelphia Eagles (4-2) and Washington Commanders (5-2). According to The Athletic’s playoff projections, Dallas has a 21 percent chance of making the postseason.
Head coach Mike McCarthy did not label the game against the 49ers as a must-win, but he acknowledged its significance. Despite the injury to 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who suffered a season-ending ACL/MCL tear in Week 7, San Francisco remains a tough competitor. They rank fourth in the league in passing yards (254.4) and are tied for eighth in points scored (25.7), having beaten Dallas in their last three matchups.
If Parsons is unable to play, the Cowboys may face a tougher challenge in securing a victory on the road.
