Micah Parsons isn't just good, he's great. Albeit in one season, Parsons proved that he wasn't your average off-the-ball linebacker in 2021, but that he's a swiss army knife with an unlimited skill set.

There's no doubt that Parsons is one of the best young players in the NFL. Earlier this week, CBS Sports ranked the top 25 players under the age of 25. Of course, Parsons made the list, but it was at 16, which seems pretty low considering what he brings to the table.

"Lest we allow recency bias to crown Parsons after one year, it's hard not to envision the Penn State product headlining Dallas' defense for a decade-plus. A physical freak whose traits transcend the "linebacker" label, he instantly reshaped the Cowboys' pass rush with a 13-sack debut and has the upside to mask his defense's weaknesses."

Granted, Parsons has played just one season so there's a consistency factor that may have come into play with his ranking. However, he brings value at multiple positions on the Cowboys' defense, which is a rare feat for any player.

Parsons wasn't used as a pass rusher much during his days at Penn State. So, without a lot of experience getting after the quarterback from the edge, Parsons dazzled with his natural bend and speed against quality NFL tackles. Also, his sideline to sideline prowess as a run defender made him that much more of an effective player.

Heading his second season, Parsons is fine-tuning his game as a linebacker and an edge rusher, splitting his time with both positions on the field and in the meeting room during OTAs.

“It’s going to be a little different. It’s going to be more challenging. But I never back down from a challenge,” said Parsons. “The good ones, the great ones, just find a way. No matter what comes at me. I know things are going to be frustrating, but I’ve got to find a way to get home. I’ve got to find a way to make plays because that’s what gets me going.”

Parsons is a special talent, that's a given. However, he was almost very raw in his first season. With another year under defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, Parsons will continue to elevate his play, which won't please offensive play-callers around the NFL.

Feature image via Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports