Cowboys coach Schottenheimer confident in Parsons' readiness: "We feel like Micah's going to be out there."

The Dallas Cowboys are in negotiations for a contract extension with Pro Bowl edge rusher Micah Parsons, who is currently sidelined due to back tightness.

Why it matters: Parsons has emerged as one of the linchpins of the Cowboys’ defense, and his health will be crucial as the team prepares for the upcoming season. The Cowboys are expected to lean heavily on Parsons' ability to disrupt opposing offenses, particularly in their Week 1 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.

What’s new: As of now, Parsons has not participated in any training camp practices at Oxnard, California, or at The Star.

• Despite being absent from practice, he remains engaged in walkthroughs and team meetings, indicating a commitment to preparation even while recuperating.

Yes, but: Coach Brian Schottenheimer has expressed confidence that Parsons will be ready for the season opener, framing this period as a temporary setback rather than a long-term concern.

• "Micah's another guy; he takes great care of his body," Schottenheimer stated, underscoring the athlete's dedication to his physical fitness.

What to watch: The Cowboys have a looming deadline to finalize their 53-man roster by Tuesday, which adds pressure to resolve Parsons' contract situation and ensure his readiness for the season.

• With Parsons set to earn $21.324 million this season on the fifth-year option of his rookie deal, both sides appear motivated to find common ground.

By the numbers: Last season, Parsons showcased his versatility and impact by amassing 13.5 sacks, further solidifying his status as a premier pass rusher in the league.

• His performance will be pivotal within the Cowboys’ defensive scheme, which often employs aggressive blitz packages that maximize the talents of edge rushers like Parsons.

The big picture: This negotiation comes at a critical time for the Cowboys as they aim to bolster their Super Bowl aspirations.

• Keeping Parsons healthy and happy could be key to maintaining a high-performing defense capable of competing in the NFC East.

Zoom In: While Parsons deals with back tightness, his absence from practice raises questions about how quickly he can return to full form.

• "At the end of the day, you've got to change direction," Schottenheimer noted, emphasizing the importance of practice in preparing for game-day performance.

The bottom line: As negotiations continue amid Parsons' recovery, the Cowboys must navigate the complexities of contract discussions while prioritizing the health and readiness of one of their most explosive players for the upcoming season.