Dak Prescott's Future with Dallas Cowboys: A Story of Commitment and Confidence
Dak Prescott remains an integral part of the Dallas Cowboys' future plans, as affirmed by team owner Jerry Jones. The star quarterback, whose contract is fortified with a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, is a key player in the Cowboys' strategy moving forward. This assurance from Jones comes after a season where Prescott led the NFL outright in touchdown passes with 36.
Commitment From the Top
Jerry Jones, known for his hands-on approach, is determined to keep Prescott as the face of the franchise amidst the various challenges that come with salary cap negotiations. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," said Jones emphatically. Such a declaration punctuates the organization's stance that Prescott is indispensable.
Jones, ever the dedicated owner, even works on securing Prescott's contract during unconventional hours. "I work on it at two in the morning sometimes," he shared. His dedication reflects the intense effort behind the scenes to maintain the team's competitive edge while navigating the complex landscape of NFL salary caps. "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 elaborated.
Confidence from Prescott
Prescott, for his part, is equally optimistic about his continued tenure with the Cowboys. "I'm definitely confident. Obviously, it helps the team. It's important for the (salary cap) numbers," Prescott noted. He remains focused on his performance and contribution to the team's success. "Business is business. I'll leave it where it gets handled. Right now, it's about being my best for this team right now in this moment. OTAs is helping these guys out and just focused on that and I know my business will take care of itself," he said. Prescott's grounded approach underscores his faith in the process and management.
Navigating the Salary Cap
Navigating through the intricacies of NFL contracts and salary caps is no small feat, especially when dealing with star players. Jerry Jones hinted at the multifaceted considerations involved in the negotiations. "You're asking me if I worry about things going up. Not worry, but I probably have as good 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. I really do," he remarked, showcasing his control over the team's financial projection.
Jones's ability to predict and manage future cap space is a critical asset in retaining key players like Prescott. "Who in the world would think that we're not working on it?" Jones questioned rhetorically, pointing out the ongoing efforts to secure Prescott’s future with the Cowboys.
A Leader Off and On the Field
Prescott’s mindset remains firmly on his contributions on the field rather than the financial details of his contract. "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. So, I allow that to the business people to say what it's worth what they're supposed to give a quarterback of my play. A person of my play, leader of my play. For me, it's about as I said, control what I can control and handle that part and the rest will take care of itself," he explained. His attitude not only reflects his dedication to the sport but also his trust in the Cowboys management.
Throughout the years, Jerry Jones has made numerous decisions that have brought both praise and criticism. Reflecting on his journey, Jones admitted, "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. But the same imagination, the same risk-taking, the same taking risks but being pragmatic, being inconsistent, sometimes looking like you're a Mississippi riverboat gambler and sometime looking like you're trying to guard the national ball. Those inconsistencies are how we got here."
As contract negotiations continue, both Prescott and Jones exhibit a shared confidence that a mutually beneficial agreement will be reached. Prescott's outstanding performance, characterized by leading the NFL in touchdown passes, along with his unwavering dedication, makes him a cornerstone for the Dallas Cowboys. The commitment from Jones and the front office to secure Prescott's future signifies a robust partnership aimed at sustained success.