The 2025 NFL Draft opened with fireworks for the Cowboys, who got Alabama OL Tyler Booker as their first-round pick. However, a few moments crackled louder for Cowboys EDGE Micah Parsons, who had an outburst at the Panthers’ surprise selection of WR Tetairoa McMillan.
The All-Pro linebacker didn’t hide his emotions when the Panthers snagged the Arizona star wideout at No. 8, an offensive player who could have had Dallas fans’ hopes high. However, he soon found peace as the Cowboys brought home an offensive weapon to protect QB Dak Prescott.
Micah Parsons Reacts to Panthers’ Shocking Pick Before Cowboys Grab Tyler Booker
As WR Tetairoa McMillan donned the Panther cap and celebrated his big moment, cameras caught Parsons disappointed as he watched the draft live on screen. His face was a cocktail of disbelief and irritation, as he muttered what onlookers quickly interpreted as, “That was supposed to be our pick.”
His fists clenched, his jaw tightened, and within moments, the video made the rounds online. It didn’t need much to understand that this one hit him hard.
🚨VIDEO: #COWBOYS STAR MICAH PARSONS IS PISSED OFF THE #PANTHERS DRAFTED WR TETAIROA MCMILLAN.
“THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE OUR PICK. HE WAS SUPPOSED TO BE OPPOSITE CEEDEE LAMB.”
DAMN 😳
pic.twitter.com/fhBqoy2Y8k— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) April 25, 2025
However, the sting mainly came from McMillan, a silky route-runner with the flair to match, who was widely considered a perfect scheme fit for the Cowboys. His explosiveness and athleticism opposite CeeDee Lamb would’ve created nightmares for defenses. Making them Carolina’s swoop at No. 8 suspended those dreams in real time.
And yet, barely ten minutes later, the storm inside Parsons gave way to calm.
Dallas opted for Alabama offensive guard Tyler Booker with the No. 12 pick minutes later, and just like that, redemption arrived. Parsons’ mood flipped as he was again caught on camera, this time smiling ear to ear.
He dapped up Cowboys personnel and nodded in approval. The team might have missed out on McMillan, but they secured a rock on the offensive line.
#Cowboys Micah Parsons reaction to the team drafting OG Tyler Booker at 12th overall.
(🎥: @BleacherReport on YT) pic.twitter.com/UFa74Kn1ik
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) April 25, 2025
Standing 6’5″ and tipping the scales at 321 pounds, Booker brings brute strength, intelligence, and poise. A two-year starter and captain for the Crimson Tide, Booker garnered All-American and All-SEC honors in his junior year.
He has shown versatility by logging 12 games at left guard and another at left tackle, which Dallas will lean on immediately following Zack Martin’s retirement.
IT’S DRAFT NIGHT: Top 300 Prospects — Get Your Free Printable 2025 NFL Draft Big Board
At the combine, Booker’s athleticism surprised even seasoned scouts. He impressed beyond the tape with a 5.38 40-yard dash, a quick 4.84 shuttle, and a solid 27-inch vertical. More importantly, his interviews painted the picture of a player ready for the spotlight.
While many in Cowboys Nation may still daydream about what could have been with McMillan in silver and blue, they found legitimate consolation in Booker, much like it was to Parsons. Knowing his squad walked away from the night with substance, not just sizzle, he got his moment of peace.
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