Jerry Jones Committed to Dak Prescott Amid Contract Talks
Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones continues to make clear his unwavering commitment to Dak Prescott, aiming to secure the quarterback as the team's long-term starter. Jones reaffirmed his stance during a pre-draft press conference in late April and again during the introductory training camp press conference on Thursday.
Prescott's 2023 season was nothing short of remarkable. Leading the league with 36 touchdown passes and finishing second in NFL MVP voting, Prescott’s performance bolstered his case during the ongoing contract negotiations. The complexity of these talks, involving Prescott’s agent Todd France, have been compounded by recent high-profile signings of other quarterbacks.
Market Pressure Mounts
The contracts inked last week by Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love have certainly raised the stakes. Tagovailoa secured a four-year, $212.4 million deal, and Love signed a four-year contract worth $220 million, averaging $55 million per season. These figures add considerable pressure on the Cowboys to present a competitive offer to Prescott.
"We want Dak Prescott. That's that," Jones stated unequivocally, indicating his confidence in reaching a deal despite the influence of Love's massive contract. "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all," he added, quelling any immediate concerns about Prescott's status with the team.
Eye on the Future
Jones' faith in Prescott has been reinforced by the quarterback's standout performances, including setting Cowboys single-game playoff records with 403 passing yards and 41 completions from 60 attempts in an NFC wild-card round game against the Packers. Despite Prescott's costly interceptions, including a crucial pick-six, Jones remains optimistic about his abilities and future contributions.
"Yes," Jones confirmed when asked about his confidence in securing a deal for Prescott. He highlighted the emotional sting of losing to Green Bay last year, expressing eagerness for a rematch and an opportunity for Prescott to showcase his talent once more.
"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. I'm anxious for Dak to get a chance to show he's the best with a Cowboys star [on his helmet]," Jones said, showing his determination for future redemption.
Empathizing with his quarterback, Jones added, "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."
Path to Extension
With the increasing market for elite quarterbacks, securing a contract extension for Prescott is crucial. Jones is optimistic about reaching an agreement, recognizing the ongoing challenge of determining the right contract number but remaining resolute in his intent.
"We've got a lot we're weighing, and those things change. They change every day. ... It can happen. Let's give Dak credit," Jones noted, pointing to the fluid nature of contract negotiations and his hope for a favorable outcome.
Jones' remarks underscore his belief in Prescott’s abilities and the quarterback's importance to the Cowboys’ future. "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 emphasized.
In the coming months, as negotiations continue, Cowboys fans can look forward to more of Jerry Jones' vocal support for Prescott, reflecting the team’s commitment to their star quarterback’s future in Dallas.