The Cowboys should feel confident about where they are headed defensively, it's not a secret why.

Linebacker Micah Parsons came in like a tsunami in 2021 and put himself in the conversation for being the best defensive player in the NFL after being named a first-team All-Pro and winning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. It was obvious that Parsons had talent coming out of Penn State. However, Parsons being as dominant as he was right out of the gate for the Cowboys was highly impressive, especially after missing his final collegiate in 2020 due to COVID precautions.

ESPN recently put a ranking of the best linebackers in the NFL according to execs, coaches, and players heading into the 2022 season. It didn't take long to get to Parsons's name as he landed at No. 2 on the list.

Jeremy Fowler on Parsons ranking:

"Parsons' positional flexibility as a rookie created challenges in the voting. He emerged as one of the NFL's elite defensive players, ripping through 13 sacks as a part-time pass-rusher. He added 64 tackles and three forced fumbles and had a stellar 89.8 Pro Football Focus grade. That was all while playing at least 115 snaps at four different positions: left outside linebacker, left inside linebacker, right outside linebacker and right inside linebacker."

Most linebackers, if any, don't have the agility to rush the passer as well if not better than they defend the second level. Cowboys' defensive coordinator Dan Quinn was smart enough to not pigeonhole Parsons and let him be the all-purpose wrecking ball he was designed to be.

Parsons didn't just affect the game as a linebacker and an edge rusher, he also took snaps at safety and cornerback. A multifaceted player, to say the least, and one the Cowboys can use as a foundation for many seasons to come.

"Regardless, he's the best playmaker on this list," an AFC executive mentioned. "Incredible talent. The speed is so good that they are smart to use him all over."

The 12th overall pick used those jets to bend around the edge and apply pressure consistently to opposing quarterbacks and hold down the linebacker spot with his burst and ability to navigate laterally. Parsons is the engine that makes the Cowboys' defense go, and since that unit spearheads the entire team these days, he'll be more valuable in year two.

Feature image via Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports