From the Sack Wave to the Impact Wave

Cowboys third-year defenseman Micah Parsons is shifting his focus from individual accolades to a broader impact on the field.

For Parsons, his youthful ambition led him to aim for AP Defensive Rookie of the Year and lead the league in all statistical categories, including sacks. However, Parsons is looking for more than just stats in 2023. Despite his impressive 13 1/2 sacks in 2022, which ranked seventh in the league, Parsons insists that figure doesn’t encapsulate his true impact.

“I’m in the shock wave,” he declared, underscoring his desire to be a dominant and versatile player rather than just a sack hunter.

Micah Parsons’ 13th sack of the season.

(via @dallascowboys) pic.twitter.com/4MnwHgfKzU

— RJ Ochoa (@rjochoa) December 18, 2022

This change is evident in his approach to training. Parsons has gained five pounds of muscle, bringing his weight up to 250 pounds. This addition isn’t to make him a full-time defensive end, but to increase his ability to move down the field.

Parsons forecasts an exciting and varied 2023, playing “like eight positions.” His versatility is what sets him apart, and defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has confirmed that Parsons will continue in his versatile role.

After a challenging year that saw him alternate between linebacker and defensive end, Parsons has taken important lessons from the experience. He admits that he felt worn out towards the end of the season and that is why he has decided to increase his weight. However, he has set a limit of 255 pounds.

For Parsons, the key is smoothness rather than speed. This approach, along with increased care of his body, will be part of his strategy in 2023.

In short, Parsons is ready to leave the “sack wave” and embrace the “impact wave.” His goal is not to chase individual titles, but to become a more influential and dominant player on the field.