Jerry Jones Reiterates Commitment to Dak Prescott Amid Contract Talks
Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has once again underscored his unwavering commitment to keeping quarterback Dak Prescott as the franchise's long-term starter. This sentiment was reinforced at a pre-draft press conference in late April and reiterated during Jones' introductory training camp presser on Thursday.
Prescott’s stellar performance in the 2023 season, highlighted by leading the league with 36 touchdown passes and finishing second in NFL voting, seems to have cemented his value in Jones' eyes. The 30-year-old quarterback set Cowboys single-game playoff records with 403 passing yards and 41 completions from 60 pass attempts in a game against the Green Bay Packers during the NFC wild-card round. Despite two costly interceptions, including a pick-six, Prescott’s overall capabilities have been formidable.
Challenging Contract Negotiations
Contract negotiations between Prescott and the Cowboys have become increasingly complex, especially in light of the recent high-value deals signed by other NFL quarterbacks. Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa inked a four-year, $212.4 million deal, while Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love secured a four-year, $220 million contract, averaging $55 million a year. These agreements have added significant pressure to the discussions between Prescott, his agent Todd France, and the Cowboys management.
Jones has acknowledged these challenges, stating, "We've got a lot we're weighing, and those things change. They change every day. ... It can happen. Let's give Dak credit." Yet, he remains optimistic about reaching a desirable agreement with Prescott. "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all," Jones said firmly, expressing confidence that a deal will come to fruition despite the complications presented by the contracts of Tagovailoa and Love.
Prescott's Value to the Cowboys
Jerry Jones has been unambiguous in his praise for Prescott, continually highlighting his contributions over the last eight seasons. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," Jones affirmed, a clear indication of his determination to keep Prescott in Dallas. The owner sidestepped direct comparisons but noted, "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]."
Prescott's long-term importance to the Cowboys was a recurring theme during the press conference. Jones remarked, "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."
Looking Forward
Jerry Jones remains steadfast in his belief in Prescott's abilities and his pivotal role in the team's future. "I get in trouble every time I make comparisons. I do get in trouble. Ok. I do get in trouble," Jones admitted humorously, but with undeniable resolve. "Yes," he responded confidently when asked about the possibility of finalizing a deal for Prescott, alluding to the challenges but maintaining an optimistic outlook.
As the Cowboys' management navigates the intricacies of contract negotiations, the emphasis remains on Prescott proving his capability and securing his standing as the team's leader for upcoming seasons. Jones' faith in Prescott is apparent, and his resolve to ensure the quarterback’s future in Dallas is a testament to Prescott’s value to the organization.
In a league where quarterback contracts are escalating rapidly, Jerry Jones appears willing and committed to finding the right number to ensure Dak Prescott remains the cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," Jones reiterated, capturing the essence of his intent and the future he envisions for his team.