Jerry Jones Stands Firm on Securing Dak Prescott's Future with the Cowboys
In a display of unwavering commitment, Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has reiterated his determination to retain quarterback Dak Prescott as the team’s long-term starter. This sentiment was first articulated during a pre-draft press conference in late April and has been reaffirmed multiple times, most recently at Jones' introductory training camp press conference on Thursday.
This firm stance comes on the heels of Prescott’s stellar performance in the 2023 season, where he led the league with 36 touchdown passes and finished second in NFL voting. Such accomplishments have only bolstered Jones' resolve. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," stated Jones unequivocally, emphasizing his intent.
Complex Contract Negotiations
The contract negotiations between Prescott and the Cowboys, spearheaded by his agent Todd France, remain intricate and ongoing. The recent contracts of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love have distinctly impacted these negotiations. Tagovailoa’s four-year, $212.4 million deal, and Love’s four-year, $220 million contract, averaging $55 million a year, have set new benchmarks in the quarterback market, adding external pressure on Jones and the Cowboys' front office.
While these market shifts complicate the negotiations, Jones is optimistic about reaching an agreement. Asked about his confidence in securing a deal for Prescott in light of Love's contract, Jones responded affirmatively with a simple, "Yes." He acknowledged, "We've got a lot we're weighing, and those things change. They change every day. ... It can happen. Let's give Dak credit."
A Record-Setting Performance and the Road Ahead
Prescott's on-field prowess was on full display during a game against the Packers in the NFC wild-card round, where he set Cowboys single-game playoff records with 403 passing yards and 41 completions from 60 pass attempts. This performance, however, was marred by two costly interceptions, including a critical pick-six.
Meanwhile, Jordan Love’s record-setting postseason passer rating of 157.2 and 13 passing yards per attempt propelled the Packers to a 48-32 victory, a result Jones hopes to see rectified in a future rematch. "I get in trouble every time I make comparisons. I do get in trouble. Ok. I do get in trouble. Of course, we saw a head-to-head match with Green Bay last year. We've all got that burr in our saddle," Jones expressed. "I'm anxious for Dak to get a chance to show he's the best with a Cowboys star [on his helmet]."
Jerry Jones remains vocal about his pride in Prescott's contributions over the past eight seasons and underscores the importance of a contract extension for the quarterback. He believes the accelerating market for elite quarterbacks necessitates action. "I don't want to get into comparisons. I don't want to do that to Dak because that will start a big debate. But boy, we're proud of what Dak has accomplished. We're proud of what he is. I don't know if anybody is more so than I am," Jones remarked, highlighting his steadfast belief in Prescott's abilities.
The Importance of Continuity
The urgency and complexity of finding the right contract number for Prescott cannot be understated. It is a delicate balance between securing Prescott's future and managing the team's salary cap. Despite these challenges, Jones remains determined. "There is a need for a contract extension for Prescott given the accelerating market for elite quarterbacks," he noted, adding, "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all." This sentiment underscores Jones' long-term vision for the Cowboys with Prescott at the helm.
Jones looks forward to seeing Prescott continue to prove his capability in the upcoming seasons, maintaining the quarterback's integral role in the Cowboys' future. His optimism and commitment to Prescott are clear: "We've got a lot we're weighing, and those things change. They change every day. ... It can happen. Let's give Dak credit."
As the Cowboys head into the new season, the singular focus remains: securing Dak Prescott and ensuring the stability and success of the franchise. Jerry Jones' resolute declarations leave little doubt about the direction he envisions for the Cowboys, one that firmly includes Dak Prescott. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that,” Jones reiterated, leaving no room for ambiguity about the team's commitment to its star quarterback.