Image source: AP Photo/Doug Murray | Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Former Dallas Cowboys legend Michael Irvin is known for his loyalty to the franchise. But after this year’s Super Bowl LX, he admitted he was wrong about a former teammate.
Michael Irvin publicly apologized to ex-Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who helped the Seattle Seahawks win the championship just months after leaving Dallas. The apology came during an appearance on the The White House podcast, where Irvin admitted he reacted too strongly to Lawrence’s earlier comments.
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Irvin said the former Dallas defender deserved an apology from everyone who criticized him. He also admitted he was among those who rushed to judgment without knowing the full situation, according to the podcast.
Lawrence had stirred controversy in March 2025 when he said he believed he had a better chance to win a Super Bowl outside Dallas. After spending 11 seasons with the Cowboys, he left in free agency and signed with Seattle.
During his time in Dallas, Lawrence recorded 61.5 sacks and earned four Pro Bowl selections. Despite his success, he never reached a Super Bowl with the team.
At the time, his comments drew backlash from current and former Cowboys players. Micah Parsons called the remarks “clown” behavior, while Irvin backed Parsons and said Lawrence also shared responsibility for the team’s lack of titles.
Irvin argued then that players on the field had to take part of the blame for not winning a championship. He said Lawrence couldn’t act as if he wasn’t part of those teams that fell short.
Months later, the story took a dramatic turn. Parsons was traded to the Green Bay Packers after a contract dispute, while Lawrence captured his first Super Bowl ring in Seattle.
After the title win, Irvin changed his tone. He acknowledged that Lawrence was right and credited him for making a real impact on the Seahawks’ defense, according to the podcast appearance.
Lawrence signed a three-year, $42 million deal with Seattle and quickly became a key part of the unit. Head coach Mike Macdonald even called him the best drill player he had ever seen, praising his effort and attention to detail.
The 33-year-old defensive end appeared in 16 games during the regular season. He finished with 53 combined tackles, 23 solo stops, six sacks, and three forced fumbles.
One of his biggest plays came in Week 10 against the Arizona Cardinals. Lawrence recovered a fumble and returned it 34 yards for a touchdown, giving Seattle a major momentum swing.
He stayed productive in the playoffs as well. Lawrence recorded two sacks and three forced fumbles in two postseason games, helping push the Seahawks into the Super Bowl.
In the championship game against the New England Patriots, Seattle’s defense dominated. The unit sacked quarterback Drake Maye six times and forced three turnovers.
Lawrence was a key part of that effort, showing the same energy and consistency he displayed all season. His performance helped deliver Seattle’s second Super Bowl title.
In the end, Lawrence didn’t just predict success in a new uniform. He helped make it happen, and even one of Dallas’ biggest legends now admits it.
FAQ:
Why did Michael Irvin apologize to DeMarcus Lawrence?
Michael Irvin apologized after DeMarcus Lawrence won Super Bowl LX with the Seattle Seahawks. Irvin had previously criticized Lawrence for saying he had a better chance to win a championship outside Dallas.
What did DeMarcus Lawrence say about the Dallas Cowboys?
Lawrence said in March 2025 that he did not believe he would win a Super Bowl in Dallas. His comments drew criticism from former and current Cowboys players at the time.
Where did DeMarcus Lawrence sign after leaving Dallas?
Lawrence signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks following his 11-season run with the Cowboys.
How did DeMarcus Lawrence perform in the 2026 season?
Lawrence played 16 regular-season games, recording 53 combined tackles, 6 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. He also contributed key plays during the playoffs and Super Bowl.
What role did Lawrence play in the Seahawks’ Super Bowl LX win?
Lawrence was part of a dominant defensive unit that recorded six sacks and forced three turnovers in the championship game. His pressure and consistency were major factors in Seattle’s title run.
What did Mike Macdonald say about DeMarcus Lawrence?
Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald praised Lawrence, calling him the best drill player he has ever seen. He highlighted Lawrence’s effort, leadership, and preparation.
How did Micah Parsons react to Lawrence’s earlier comments?
Micah Parsons criticized Lawrence’s remarks when they first surfaced, saying he disagreed with the idea that Dallas could not win a Super Bowl.
How long did DeMarcus Lawrence play for the Cowboys?
Lawrence spent 11 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, recording 61.5 sacks and earning four Pro Bowl selections before moving to Seattle.
Michael Irvin Apologizes to Lawrence After Seahawks’ Super Bowl Win