An X-factor can be a player who hasn't been a contributor in the past but steps up in the new season.
The Dallas Cowboys' "X-factor" is a player unlike any other in the NFL.
Micah Parsons is the X-factor of Dallas Cowboys.
The importance of Parsons and what distinguishes him from other top football defenders is his adaptability.
The analytics on Parsons as a pass-rusher are exceptional.
Pro Football Focus Sam Monson highlighted that Parson's 25.3% pass-rush victory rate last season was the highest in the league in his ranking of the top 50 NFL players.
This indicates that Parsons, a rookie, produced quarterback pressure more effectively than players like T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett, and Aaron Donald.
On Dallas' roster, there are numerous candidates for the X-factor title. Kelvin Joseph, a player with a poor track record but high ceilings, can stake a claim.
Zack Martin is a seasoned leader in charge of a young group of Cowboys linemen who easily fit that mould.