Micah Parsons was asked if he’s excited to sack Dak Prescott on Sunday, his response?

GREEN BAY, Wis. – In the fiercely competitive world of the NFL, where teammates can become rivals overnight, Micah Parsons is preparing for an emotionally charged game: returning to AT&T Stadium to face his former team, the Dallas Cowboys. But unlike the typical stories of revenge or grudges, Parsons' journey is a vivid testament to the values of respect and gratitude toward those who once guided him.

Micah Parsons, the star pass rusher drafted by the Cowboys at the 12th pick in 2021, was traded to the Green Bay Packers in a shocking deal earlier this season. Now, with the Packers boasting an impressive record (2-1), Parsons will don the green-and-gold jersey to take on the Cowboys (1-2), a team struggling defensively by allowing an average of 30.7 points per game. But instead of boasting about his ability to "take down" his old rivals, Parsons chooses to express deep respect, especially for quarterback Dak Prescott – whom he regards as a "father figure" in his career.

In an exclusive interview with ESPN after practice in Green Bay on Wednesday, Parsons shared about his special relationship with Prescott. "Dak wasn’t just a friend to me, he was more of a father figure when I got to Dallas," Parsons said, his voice filled with emotion. "When I first stepped into the NFL, he taught me how to work professionally, how to lead, and how to handle pressure. Those lessons didn’t just help me on the field but in life as well. Now, even though we’re on opposite sides, I’ll always be grateful to him."

Parsons' response doesn’t just stop at personal sentiment but carries a profound moral lesson, emphasizing the value of respect in sports. He continued: "In football, we can compete fiercely, but never forget those who lifted you up. That’s why I always try to play my best, but with respect. If I get the chance to sack Dak, it won’t be a hostile tackle, but just a long overdue hug – a way to say 'Thank you for everything'."

Parsons' words evoke classic NFL stories, like Emmitt Smith's return with the Arizona Cardinals or DeMarcus Ware with the Denver Broncos. These legends also faced their former teams, but they always maintained respect, turning the game into an occasion for tribute rather than animosity. Parsons, with just three seasons in Dallas but already making an impact with 1.5 sacks and 6 quarterback hurries in his first three games for the Packers, is contributing to his new team's solid defense (allowing only an average of 14.7 points per game). However, he affirms that his current success wouldn’t be possible without the foundations from the Cowboys.

Jerry Jones, the Cowboys' owner, also acknowledged Parsons' appeal in the upcoming game. "Micah is a great player, and we know he’ll play his heart out," Jones said. "But this is football – where mutual respect creates real value."

When the game takes place on Sunday, millions of fans will witness not just a technical showdown, but a lesson in gratitude. Micah Parsons, from a rookie to a star, is proving that: In the ever-changing world of sports, respect for former "mentors" is the foundation for growth. And perhaps, after the game, no matter the outcome, Parsons and Prescott will embrace again – not on the field, but as true brothers.