The Dallas Cowboys' owner and general manager, Jerry Jones, has once again affirmed his unwavering intent to retain quarterback Dak Prescott as the team's long-term starter. This commitment was reiterated during several high-profile appearances, even as contract negotiations with Prescott continue to unfold.
Firm Commitment to Prescott
Jones has been vocal about his desire to keep Prescott, making his intention clear during a pre-draft press conference in late April and reaffirming it at the team's introductory training camp press conference on Thursday. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," Jones stated unequivocally. His loyalty to Prescott underscores the quarterback's pivotal role within the Cowboys’ framework.
Impressive 2023 Season
Prescott’s exceptional performance in the 2023 season certainly bolsters Jones' commitment. Leading the league with 36 touchdown passes and finishing second in NFL voting, Prescott has demonstrated he has the skills to be a top-tier quarterback. His abilities were further highlighted during a standout playoff performance against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC wild-card round, setting Cowboys single-game playoff records with 403 passing yards and 41 completions from 60 pass attempts.
Contract Negotiations: A Complex Landscape
However, despite Prescott's impressive resume, the contract negotiations have proven to be complex. Jones has openly acknowledged the challenges involved in reaching an agreement with Prescott and his agent, Todd France. The fact that other elite quarterbacks like Miami Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa and Green Bay Packers’ Jordan Love recently signed lucrative deals has only added pressure to the situation. Tagovailoa's four-year, $212.4 million deal and Love's four-year, $220 million contract, averaging $55 million a year, have undoubtedly set a high bar.
When asked about his confidence in getting a deal done for Prescott given the effects of Love's contract, Jones responded directly, "Yes."
Upcoming Season Expectations
While contract discussions continue, Jones remains optimistic about retaining Prescott and looks forward to what the quarterback can achieve in the coming seasons. "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all," Jones said, expressing his belief in Prescott's future with the team.
A Desire for Redemption
Jones also reflected on last season's head-to-head match against Green Bay, which ended in a 48-32 victory for the Packers. Jordan Love's record-setting performance in that game, with a postseason passer rating of 157.2 and 13 passing yards per attempt, serves as a stark contrast to Prescott's two costly interceptions, including a crucial pick-six. "Of course, we saw a head-to-head match with Green Bay last year. We've all got that burr in our saddle. I'm anxious for Dak to get a chance to show he's the best with a Cowboys star [on his helmet]," Jones remarked.
Acknowledging Challenges and Looking Ahead
Jones admits that finding the right contract number is a daunting task, but he remains determined. "We've got a lot we're weighing, and those things change. They change every day. ... It can happen. Let's give Dak credit," he said, acknowledging the fluid nature of contract negotiations.
Jerry Jones' unwavering belief in Dak Prescott's abilities and his contributions over the last eight seasons is evident. "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," he added.
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, Jones's optimism shines through. He is confident that Prescott will continue to prove his capability and importance to the team’s future. The complex and evolving situation of Prescott's contract remains a critical point of attention, but Jones’s commitment to his quarterback is clear and resolute.