CBS Sports analyst Cody Benjiman has named his top 25 players under 25 years old for the 2022 season, and he put former Penn State and current Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons came in at 16th on his list.
The top three players on his list were quarterbacks. Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers was number one on his list, followed by Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens and Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Four defensive players were ranked above Parsons. Nick Bosa of the San Francisco 49ers came in at fourth, Jaire Alexander of the Green Bay Packers at ninth, Roquan Smith of the Chicago Bears at No. 13, and Chase Young of the Washington Commanders came at No. 14.
The 22-year-old Parsons recorded 86 tackles, 13 sacks and forced three fumbles on his way to unanimously winning the 2021 Defensive Rookie of the Year. He was also named to the Pro Bowl and earned AP first-team All-Pro honors.
Benjamin said in his assessment that he envisions the Harrisburg product headlining the Cowboys defense for the next decade-plus. He also describes him as a physical freak that has the tools to transcend the linebacker position.
At 22, Parsons has a few seasons to move up even further in the “25 under 25” rankings.
Twitter: @bwalkerdadon
