In a time of uncertainty in the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys have firmly planted their flag in the Dak Prescott camp. The star quarterback remains an essential fixture in the Cowboys' plans for the future, a point underscored by the various statements from team owner Jerry Jones and Prescott himself.
Prescott’s performance last season was nothing short of stellar, leading the NFL outright with 36 touchdown passes in 2023. His leadership on the field has proven invaluable, yet it is his off-field negotiations that are now under the microscope.
The Business Side
Prescott’s contract includes both a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, ensuring his commitment to the franchise remains steadfast. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," said Jerry Jones with a level of candor that leaves little room for misinterpretation.
Contract negotiations always come with complexities, not solely in the figures but also in allocating resources under the salary cap. Jones, with his years of experience, has a unique handle on these challenges. "To be very candid, this is pro football. It has to do with the allocation of your resources, which happens to be cap space," Jones explained.
Prescott, maintaining a focus on the present, expressed confidence in the negotiation process. "Business is business. I'll leave it where it gets handled," he noted. There exists a mutual understanding between both sides, with Prescott confident that "everything is great. It'll happen."
Jones' Unconventional Approach
The narrative of Jerry Jones’ unconventional yet effective approach to management continues. "I've had a lot of mistakes in these years. But the same guys making this decision that has the Cowboys and really got there by the skin of my teeth. It was a miracle that I was able to pull it off. A miracle," he candidly admitted.
Jones’ working hours reflect his dedication to resolving these negotiations. "I work on it at two in the morning sometimes," he quipped. Despite the unexpected timing, the ultimate goal remains clear for Jones. "Who in the world would think that we're not working on it?"
The Financial Landscape
In comparison, other NFL quarterbacks have also seen significant paydays. Trevor Lawrence signed a massive five-year, $275 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, while Jared Goff secured a four-year, $212 million deal with the Detroit Lions. In this financial landscape, ensuring that Prescott’s contract aligns with both his market value and the team’s future plans continues to challenge the Cowboys’ front office.
Jones, however, remains optimistic about the financial future. "You're asking me if I worry about things going up. Not worry, but I probably have as good of a feel as anybody living on this earth what the cap is going to be three years from now, four years from now, five years from now," he said.
Prescott's Focus
For Prescott, the priority remains the team's success. "Right now, it's about being my best for this team right now in this moment," he stated. His commitment is palpable, reflecting in his approach to OTAs and helping his teammates improve. "OTAs is helping these guys out and just focused on that and I know my business will take care of itself," he said.
At the core, Prescott plays for the love of the game. "I don't play for money. Never have cared for it, to be honest with you. Yeah. Would give it up just to play this game," he said. His statement underscores his genuine dedication, one that resonates deeply with fans and teammates alike.
Looking Ahead
The Cowboys' faith in Prescott is unwavering, as reiterated by Jerry Jones: "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all." This sentiment leaves fans with a sense of assurance and optimism about the future.
As negotiations continue behind closed doors, both Prescott and Jones maintain a public front of unity and resolve. The signs all point to an eventual positive outcome, aligning Prescott’s future with the trajectory of the Cowboys.
While precise details of the impending contract remain veiled, the strategic focus of both parties suggests a resolution that will keep Prescott donning the Cowboys' star for years to come. And for now, that certainty commands its own brand of respect.
