“Parsons and Hooker Clash Over Podcasting: Cowboys’ Defense Faces Internal Strife”
Dallas Cowboys defenders are in conflict after Malik Hooker and Micah Parsons discussed each other’s podcasting. Known for his outspoken personality, Parsons received criticism first from Hooker.
Hooker appeared on Keyshawn Johnson’s “All Facts No Breaks” podcast on June 28, where he candidly spoke about Parsons’ podcasting, suggesting it was a distraction.
“My advice for Micah would be just make sure we’re alright,” Hooker said. “Because if we’re at work and the run game’s terrible but you’re doing a podcast every week, then what are you really caring about? Are you caring about the crowd that was watching the podcast or are you caring about the success of our team and the Super Bowl that we’re trying to reach?”
Such a public comment was bound to create controversy, and Parsons quickly formulated a response.
Parsons, known for his podcast “The Edge,” responded on Twitter (X). In a now-deleted post, he said, “Just wish you said this to me but instead on some podcast! And you got my number family! @MalikHooker24 and you my locker mate! So you coulda said this any day! And you do realize I shoot the podcast on our off day! Why ain’t we talking about everyone’s preparations and focus.”
The deleted post indicates the two may have started addressing the issue. Although it’s concerning to see teammates in conflict, there’s still time before the regular season begins for them to resolve it. If not, it could pose a challenge for Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy and the front office.
While Hooker is a skilled player, Parsons has emerged as the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ defense. As the team’s leading pass rusher, he’s poised to secure a massive contract, potentially becoming the highest-paid edge rusher in the NFL.
For now, however, Parsons is content playing out the fourth year of his rookie contract without stressing over a new deal.
“One day,” Parsons said on June 4. “Time will tell. I can’t really put a timetable on mine. All I gotta do is keep getting sacks and that stuff will handle itself.”
The Cowboys have already exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie deal. For the 2024 season, Parsons will count as a $5.4 million cap hit for Dallas and earn $3 million in salary. However, with the fifth-year option, he will see a substantial raise, earning $21.3 million.
Evan Reier is a sports journalist covering the NFL for Heavy.com, focusing on the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers. He previously covered sports for the Montana Standard and served as a managing editor for Outsider.
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