Jerry Jones Firm on Retaining Dak Prescott Amidst Contract Negotiations
Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has made it clear: Dak Prescott is the quarterback he wants leading his team into the future. With unwavering resolve, Jones has repeatedly stated his commitment to securing Prescott as the franchise's long-term starter, despite the complexities of ongoing contract negotiations.
At a pre-draft press conference in late April, Jones unambiguously voiced his intention to hold onto Prescott. Recently, during his introductory training camp press conference, Jones once again emphasized his dedication to Prescott: "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," he affirmed.
The 2023 season showcased Prescott at his best, leading the league with 36 touchdown passes and finishing second in NFL MVP voting. His performance solidified his status as an elite quarterback, a fact that Jerry Jones has been quick to highlight. "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," Jones remarked.
Contract Challenges and Competitive Market
The intricacies of Prescott's contract negotiations are magnified by the recent deals signed by other top quarterbacks. Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa inked a four-year, $212.4 million deal, while Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love agreed to a four-year, $220 million contract, averaging $55 million per year. These blockbuster contracts have undoubtedly added pressure to the Cowboys' negotiations with Prescott and his agent, Todd France.
Jones acknowledges the escalating market for elite quarterbacks and the significant financial commitment it entails. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about reaching an agreement. "Yes," Jones responded confidently when asked about his prospects of sealing a deal for Prescott, especially in light of Love's new contract. "We've got a lot we're weighing, and those things change. They change every day. ... It can happen. Let's give Dak credit."
Record-Breaking Performances and Lingering Regrets
Prescott has delivered some memorable performances for the Cowboys, including setting single-game playoff records for the franchise with 403 passing yards and 41 completions from 60 pass attempts against the Packers in the NFC wild-card round. However, that game also featured two pivotal interceptions, including a costly pick-six, which underscored the highs and lows of his performance.
Conversely, Jordan Love set franchise records in that same game with a postseason passer rating of 157.2 and 13 passing yards per attempt, steering the Packers to a 48-32 victory. This stark contrast has not dampened Jones' enthusiasm for his quarterback. "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 stated.
Looking Forward: Confidence in Prescott's Future
Despite the ups and downs, Jones is unwavering in his belief in Prescott's capabilities and his significance to the Cowboys' future success. He remains vocal about his pride in Prescott's contributions over the past eight seasons and his optimism for the quarterback's continued development. "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all," Jones assured.
The path to a contract extension is undoubtedly fraught with challenges, yet Jones is determined to navigate these hurdles. "There is a need for a contract extension for Prescott given the accelerating market for elite quarterbacks," Jones noted, highlighting the urgency of securing Prescott's future with the team. He looks forward to seeing Prescott prove his capability in the upcoming seasons and believes that an agreement will be reached.
Ultimately, Jerry Jones' faith in Dak Prescott is resolute. "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 reiterated. The Cowboys' future remains bright with Prescott under center, and Jones is committed to ensuring that future is realized.