OXNARD, California — The first day in full pads was a success. Monday marked the sixth day of training camp practice for the Dallas Cowboys. Micah Parsons was once again the star of the show.
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As an edge rusher and run stopper, the NFL Defensive Player of the Year candidate wreaked havoc.
Whether he was facing left tackle Tyron Smith or right tackle Terence Steele, Parsons looked the part of an excellent player who has yet to achieve his full potential.
“You could just feel the intensity come out, knowing they were going to get to use those pads and execute,” Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said following practice on Monday. “I believed the practice reflected that.” I think there was a lot of intensity today, whether it was contact or not, and I thought the line play was really exciting. Of course, it was something new to us. They haven’t put on the pads.
“I was very impressed with Micah, especially the rep he took against Tyron Smith and demonstrated his strength.” That one got your attention.”
What about Parsons has most pleased Smith, an eight-time Pro Bowler?
“He comes out and doesn’t quit at all,” he explained. “He gives it his all on every play.” If he goes against you, he’ll tell you what happened on that play, whether he beats you or if there’s anything you can fix on that play. You can talk to him, and he takes criticism seriously.”
Here are some further observations from the Cowboys’ first full-pad training camp practice.
Competition in kicking. Monday marked the first official day of Tristan Vizcaino’s battle with Brandon Aubrey for the kicking position in Dallas. They were each 5 for 7 on field goals early in practice. All attempts were within 45 yards of the goal. Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy has revived the “Mojo Moment” this season. Vizcaino and Aubrey were each 3 for 3 from 38, 44, and 48 yards with the entire squad gathered around during that stretch Monday.