‘He’s Not Micah Parsons:’ LeSean McCoy Thinks Micah Parsons Is Much Better Than T.J. Watt

The NFL boasts an exceptional group of talented pass rushers, which may be one of the reasons why scoring throughout the league has decreased this season, as discussed in this article. However, when it comes to LeSean McCoy’s argument, most Steelers’ fans would simply consider it embarrassing.

During a recent episode of FOX Sports’ Speak, McCoy, serving as an analyst, engaged in a heated debate over who the top pass rushers in football are. Emmanuel Acho championed Watt and his game-changing abilities, while McCoy passionately argued for Parsons as his pick.

Mccoy began by praising T.J. Watt, saying, “He’s amazing. But when you watch Micah, it’s a different experience. Micah can excel in any position. He can be a standup linebacker or an outside linebacker. Micah might just be the best player on the team. If they wanted to, he could even play tight end or running back.”

Parsons entered the NFL as the 12th overall draft pick in 2021, an extraordinary athlete from Penn State who displayed impressive pre-draft workout results for his position. Standing at 6’3″, weighing 246 pounds, Parsons recorded a stunning 4.39-second 40-yard dash time at his Pro Day, accompanied by a 34-inch vertical jump, a broad jump of 10’6″, and a three-cone time of 6.96 seconds. Any three-cone time below seven seconds is considered exceptional for a projected great pass rusher.

In his third year in the league, Parsons has lived up to expectations. As a rookie, he achieved 13 sacks and forced three fumbles, ultimately earning the title of Defensive Rookie of the Year. He also finished second in the race for Defensive Player of the Year, with Watt claiming the top spot. Parsons continued his success in 2022 with a impressive 13.5 sacks, again finishing second in DPOY voting, this time behind Nick Bosa.

McCoy’s point about Parsons’ versatility being a unique trait among elite edge rushers is valid. Parsons can function as a linebacker or pass rusher against tackles, while Watt is more of a static player. However, Watt has been more productive and game-changing during critical moments of the game, supported by his extensive body of work and accolades. Watt has had three seasons with more sacks than Parsons, even tying the NFL record with 22.5 sacks in 2021. Despite having an early bye week, he currently shares the lead for sacks with eight, and is on track to break the NFL’s all-time record.

Nevertheless, McCoy remained unconvinced, stating, “He’s a really good player, but he’s not Micah Parsons.”

A frustrated Acho attempted to remind the panel of Watt’s exceptional abilities, stating, “T.J. Watt is almost at 100 sacks. Yet, we’re just saying ‘he’s a good player.’ We need to give him the credit he deserves.”

Former NFL wide receiver James Jones supported Acho’s argument, noting that Dallas’ large market and TV presence give Parsons an advantage in terms of public perception.

With T.J. Watt’s outstanding performance this year, making big plays, scoring touchdowns, securing sacks, and sealing victories, Jones believes that if Watt and Parsons were swapped, the focus would shift to Watt.

However, no matter the facts or insights presented by Acho, Jones, and Joy Taylor, McCoy remained steadfast in his belief, declaring, “Micah is a different creature.”

While much of the conversation centered around the comparison between Parsons and Watt, other notable names also came up. In the eyes of Steelers’ fans and fans of the AFC North, the debate revolves around Watt versus Myles Garrett. Watt may have the numbers, but Garrett has showcased more awe-inspiring moments. This debate will likely continue for years, just like the ongoing discussion between Watt and Parsons.

Watch the entire debate and discussion below.