NFL23h ago
Parsons Trade Lingers as Both Teams Chase Better Results
More than a year after the August 2025 deal, the Cowboys and Packers continue to feel its effects while Parsons recovers from left ACL surgery.
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Packers Still Waiting for Impact
The Packers opened the current season at 3-2 while waiting for Parsons to return from surgery performed more than nine months ago. Last season they stood at 9-3-1 before the injury occurred in Week 15, then lost their final three games and a playoff contest. The team has leaned on other defenders and has recorded pressures that rank 13th in the league along with ninth in quarterback contact. Blitzes have risen to 31.7 percent of opponent dropbacks.
Cowboys Defense Seeks Consistency
Dallas sits at 2-3 after allowing a franchise-record 511 points last season and ranking 30th in yards permitted. Through five games this year the unit has given up 395.4 yards per game, 168.4 rushing yards per game and 27.2 points per game. The team has surrendered 20 or more points in each of its past 12 contests. After receiving first-round selections in 2026 and 2027 plus Kenny Clark in the original trade, the Cowboys acquired Quinnen Williams in exchange for the higher 2027 pick and added Malachi Lawrence at No. 26 overall.
Long-Term Effects Still Unclear
The trade sent Parsons to Green Bay, where he posted 12.5 sacks and 64 quarterback pressures before the knee injury. Both clubs have used the assets and roster changes to reshape their defenses, yet neither has produced the sustained success that would declare a clear winner in the exchange.
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