Dallas Cowboys defensive end Micah Parsons has quickly become one of the NFL’s brightest stars, known for his relentless motor, jaw-dropping athleticism, and game-changing plays.
However, off the field, Parsons is also an avid sports fan—and recently, he added a prized piece of memorabilia to his growing collection: a baseball bat autographed by none other than two Major League Baseball legends, Reggie Jackson and Johnny Bench.
It must have been a strange experience for Parsons to be the one asking for the autograph instead of signing it, but he was like a kid in a candy store.
The moment was captured at a recent high-profile event where stars from across the sports world mingled.
Parsons, clearly thrilled, shared the signed bat on social media, calling it “an honor” to meet two of baseball’s most iconic Hall of Famers.
Cross Platform Greatness
Micah Parsons is well on his way to creating a legacy of his own.
Since being drafted 12th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, he has already become the cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense.
With back-to-back All-Pro selections and a reputation for terrorizing quarterbacks, Parsons is drawing comparisons to some of the greatest defenders in league history.
It’s his respect for legends across all sports that adds another layer to his personality—one grounded in humility and appreciation for greatness.
And greatness is exactly what Reggie Jackson and Johnny Bench represent in the world of baseball.
Mr. October
Reggie Jackson’s nickname says it all.
Known as “Mr. October” for his heroics in the postseason, Jackson played 21 seasons in Major League Baseball, most notably with the Oakland Athletics and New York Yankees.
A 14-time All-Star, Jackson smashed 563 career home runs and helped his teams win five World Series championships.
His most iconic moment came during Game 6 of the 1977 World Series, when he hit three home runs on three consecutive pitches—an achievement that instantly immortalized him in baseball lore.
Jackson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993, and his larger-than-life persona made him one of the sport’s first true superstars in the modern media era.
The Ultimate Catcher
Widely regarded as the greatest catcher in MLB history, Johnny Bench was the cornerstone of the Cincinnati Reds’ “Big Red Machine” in the 1970s.
Over a 17-year career, all spent in Cincinnati, Bench was a 14-time All-Star and two-time National League MVP. Known for his defensive brilliance and power at the plate, Bench helped lead the Reds to two World Series titles in 1975 and 1976.
Bench’s accolades are staggering: 10 Gold Glove Awards, 389 career home runs, and a place in the Hall of Fame by the age of 39.
His impact extended beyond numbers—he revolutionized the catcher position with his one-handed catching technique and remarkable durability.
A Moment of Respect
For Parsons, receiving a signed bat from Jackson and Bench isn’t just about collecting memorabilia—it’s about honoring the legends who paved the way in their respective sports.
It’s also a moment of mutual recognition, as both baseball greats reportedly praised Parsons for his explosive performances and rising status in the NFL.
In a world where sports can often be siloed, it’s refreshing to see a cross-generational, cross-sport connection like this.
The photo of Parsons holding the signed bat next to two legends of the diamond is more than just a cool snapshot—it’s a symbol of the respect that transcends stats, leagues, and eras.
As Micah Parsons continues to chase greatness on the gridiron, it’s clear he hasn’t lost sight of the giants who came before him.
And if his career continues on its current trajectory, someday it may be his signature that young athletes treasure in return.