Jerry Jones Firm on Dak Prescott's Future with the Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has once again affirmed his unwavering commitment to retaining quarterback Dak Prescott. This sentiment was strongly echoed at a pre-draft press conference in late April and reinforced at his recent introductory training camp press conference. Jones made it abundantly clear: "We want Dak Prescott. That's that."
The 2023 season showcased Prescott's exceptional skills, with the quarterback leading the NFL with 36 touchdown passes and securing a second-place finish in the league's voting. Despite a stunning performance, contract negotiations between Prescott and the Cowboys, represented by his agent Todd France, remain complex.
Contract Negotiations Intensify
With the quarterback market seeing recent high-value contract signings, Jones and the Cowboys are feeling the heat. The Miami Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa secured a four-year deal worth $212.4 million, while the Green Bay Packers' Jordan Love inked a four-year, $220 million contract, averaging $55 million annually. These deals have elevated the stakes for Prescott's contract renewal.
However, Jones remains optimistic about reaching a favorable agreement with Prescott. "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all," Jones confidently stated, emphasizing his belief in finding the right contract number despite the market pressures.
Highlighting Prescott's Achievements
Prescott's career with the Cowboys has been illustrious. One standout performance includes setting single-game playoff records for the Cowboys with 403 passing yards and 41 completions out of 60 pass attempts in an NFC wild-card round game against the Packers. Unfortunately, his two interceptions, including a crucial pick-six, marred an otherwise spectacular game.
Notably, the Packers' Jordan Love also set remarkable records with a postseason passer rating of 157.2 and an average of 13 passing yards per attempt, leading his team to a 48-32 victory. This has created additional motivation for a rematch, a sentiment Jones shared: "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 remains vocal about his pride in Prescott’s contributions over the last eight seasons. "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," he emphasized.
The Road Ahead
The accelerating market for elite quarterbacks underscores the necessity of a contract extension for Prescott. Jones is aware of the challenges but remains dedicated to finding a solution. "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 remarked.
Jones is optimistic about the future and looks forward to seeing Prescott demonstrate his capabilities in the upcoming seasons. "Yes," he replied, when asked about his confidence in getting a deal done for Prescott given the effects of Love's contract.
The faith Jones places in Prescott is evident and unwavering. With both parties seemingly committed to reaching a favorable agreement, Cowboys fans can remain hopeful that their star quarterback will continue to be a pivotal figure in the team's quest for future success.