“Micah Parsons doesn’t hold a candle to Julius Peppers” – NFL legend Steve Smith Sr. questions Cowboys star’s credentials

Micah Parsons and the Dallas Cowboys' season went off the rails a long time ago, but a Week 12 win over the Washington Commanders breathed a bit of life into a season that looked hopeless. With no Dak Prescott to sling some throws under center, the Cowboys had to rely on backup quarterback Cooper Rush and some unfortunate luck on the Commanders' part to pick up their fourth win of the season.

Star pass rusher Parsons had two sacks that evening as he made his presence known against Washington. Parsons has been in the headlines all season, partly owing to his public comments and because of his podcast.

When it comes to his contributions on the field, though, Carolina Panthers icon Steve Smith Sr. raised some serious questions about whether Parsons has what it takes to become the Cowboys' true generational linchpin.

On Underdog's fantasy football podcast, Smith Sr. said about Parsons' credentials:

“There’s a lot of rare talent in the league. Is Micah Parsons worth a $100 million contract? Which means he’s your defense. He is athletically gifted.

“Micah Parsons does not hold a candle to Jevon Kearse or Julius Peppers. I think Micah Parsons is fantastic. I just don’t see him showing up in the football game every single play.

“We talk about the mythical creatures of the defensive line that we’ve seen over the years. … I just don’t see it.”

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Micah Parsons and the Cowboys' defense struggling in 2024

Heading into the Thanksgiving Day showdown against the New York Giants, Parsons has five sacks on the season, but it should be noted that he has only featured in seven games for the Cowboys. He missed four games this year with a high-ankle sprain, making his return in Week 10 against their perennial rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Cowboys' defense has also failed to impress as a unit despite the franchise bringing Mike Zimmer on board. Zimmer, the former Vikings coach, was expected to bring a new scheme to Dallas and get the best out of Parsons and co. However, 12 weeks into the season, we are yet to see the Cowboys defense terrorize offenses this year.