In the NFL, it's rare for players to publicly speak out in defense of their opponents. However, Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, a two-time first-team All-Pro, has broken this mold. Parsons recently took to social media to defend New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson and New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, who have faced heavy criticism from fans and analysts alike for their rough starts to the 2023 season.
One of Wilson's strongest performances came in Week 4, despite a 23-20 loss to the reigning Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs. Wilson threw for 245 yards, two touchdowns, and had no interceptions on 28 of 39 passing, earning a passer rating of 105.2. Surprisingly, Wilson outperformed Chiefs' star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who threw for 203 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. These numbers made Wilson the first quarterback to surpass Mahomes in completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns, and interceptions in a game, both in college and the NFL, according to OptaStats. However, retired safety Rodney Harrison, now an analyst for NBC Sports, called Wilson "garbage" during a postgame interview with Chiefs' defensive tackle Chris Jones.
Parsons, known for his outspoken nature, criticized the media's tendency to focus on the negative aspects of players' performances. He compared online criticism to bullying and stressed the importance of considering the circumstances surrounding each player. Parsons argued that it is unfair to label someone as "garbage" without knowing the full story, including the dynamics within the team and the challenges they face both on and off the field.
Parsons was particularly passionate about defending Wilson, given that his harshest critic was a former NFL player. He emphasized that former players should understand the complexities of the game and the potential misinterpretations that can arise. Parsons highlighted the importance of perspective and the need to avoid speaking negatively about others.
In the case of Daniel Jones, the internet erupted with criticism after the New York Giants suffered a humiliating 24-3 defeat against the Seattle Seahawks on "Monday Night Football" in Week 4. Jones threw two interceptions, including a 97-yard pick-six, and faced relentless pressure, getting sacked 10 times. Many questioned the Giants' decision to award Jones a four-year, $160 million contract, the same deal received by quarterbacks Matthew Stafford and Dak Prescott. Parsons defended Jones by pointing out the Giants' struggling offensive line, which allows pressure on 46.9% of their quarterback dropbacks, the third-highest rate in the league.
Parsons believes that athletes should utilize their platforms to advocate for social justice causes and speak their minds. He sees this as an opportunity to share personal experiences and inspire others. Parsons values courage and encourages others to express their beliefs and perspectives, even if they go against the norm.
Micah Parsons, known for his exceptional performance on the field, maintains that he would remain true to himself, regardless of his role in the NFL.
"Even if I was trash, I would say what I say," Parsons said. "God gave you a vision. God gave you everything, the tools you need. Use it. Speak on it. That's why you have your own mind. Speak your mind."
