Micah Parsons has closed one of the most shocking contracts in NFL history following his surprise departure from the Dallas Cowboys. The 26-year-old defensive end signed a four-year, $188 million deal with the Green Bay Packers, a move that not only shakes the defensive foundations of both franchises, but also sets a new salary standard for non-quarterbacks.

The deal includes $120 million guaranteed at the time of signing, making Parsons the highest-paid defensive player of all time. In practical terms, the Penn State graduate will earn an average of $47 million per season, surpassing all precedents at his position and making it clear that Green Bay is betting on all the elite defensive talent

What are the terms of Micah Parsons’ NFL contract in 2025?

The contract signed by Parsons with the Packers not only stands out for the total amount, but also for the weight of its guarantees, of the 188 million, 120 million is guaranteed, which means that the linebacker will collect that sum regardless of his performance or continuity. This reinforces his status as a central investment in Green Bay’s project heading into the 2025 season and beyond.

In addition to his salary, Parsons inherits a starring role in a defense that now revolves around him, his arrival comes after he accumulated 52.5 sacks in 63 games with Dallas, where he was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021 and All-Pro three times.

What does Dallas get in return for trading Micah Parsons?

The deal between the Cowboys and Packers was not a simple cash swap, Dallas got two first-round picks (2026 and 2027) and veteran defensive lineman Kenny Clark, a three-time Pro Bowler with Green Bay and a consistent figure on the front line since 2016. Clark with 35 sacks in 140 games and a current $64 million contract, joins the Cowboys’ defense with the intention of covering part of the huge void left by Parsons.

Although his best years seem to be behind him, Clark still represents a solid presence in the center of the line. His deal is structured so that he only counts 2.3 million against the 2025 salary cap, allowing the Cowboys to manage their financial space flexibly.