Micah Parsons emerged as a phenom during with his rookie season with the Dallas Cowboys. It is safe to say the former Penn State star has made the Cowboys look extremely smart for selecting him in the 2021 NFL Draft.

There were some mixed feelings when Parsons was initially drafted, however. That was largely due to Dallas missing out on the top two cornerback prospects: Patrick Surtain and Jaycee Horn.

Nonetheless, Parsons blossomed in Dallas. The Cowboys used the linebacker all over the defense. Parsons was allowed to rush the passer as if he was a typical edge, while also handling regular linebacker duties.

His versatility will have an impact on how the Cowboys handle the upcoming 2022 NFL Draft — at least when it comes to the defensive side of the ball.

HOW PARSONS IMPACTS THE DRAFT

Micah Parsons is a star at linebacker. Micah Parsons is also a star when playing the edge rusher role. Either way, he is a huge plus for the Cowboys defense, regardless of where he lines up on the field.

It seems logical to continue to use Parsons as a chess piece. His versatility allows the Cowboys to be more flexible and have more creativity week-to-week and game-to-game.

Depending on where the Cowboys believe Parsons is more impactful, Dallas could lean in different directions come the draft.

Micah Parsons has the most upside of any pass rusher in the NFL. His twitch, burst and bend is off the charts. He can be a 20 sack guy in this league. I know how stupid that sounds but it's absolutely true. He can be an all-pro off the ball linebacker but I'd keep him on edge.

— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) December 1, 2021

For instance, if Dallas wants to use Parsons more at linebacker moving forward, it would make sense for the Cowboys to draft an edge rusher early in the draft. That is especially true with Randy Gregory out the door.

However, if the Cowboys want Parsons rushing off the edge more next season to offset the loss of Gregory, it would make sense for the Cowboys to target a linebacker early. The Cowboys have been linked to former Georgia star Nakobe Dean in the draft process.

One way or another, Micah Parsons could have a real impact on where the Cowboys go in the draft. His talent is undeniable, and his versatility gives Dallas multiple options to think about when it is time to make selections.

Featured image via Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports