As the new NFL season rapidly approaches, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a crucial juncture in securing the future of their key players. At the forefront of this effort is quarterback Dak Prescott, who is nearing the end of his current contract. Cowboys Executive Vice President Stephen Jones has made it clear that the organization's priority is to ensure Prescott remains the linchpin of the team's offense for years to come.
Ongoing Negotiations
"Good conversations are going on, I will say that. A lot of confidence [that something will get done]," stated Prescott, offering an update on his contractual situation. This sentiment reflects the ongoing negotiations between Prescott and the Cowboys, as both parties aim to reach an agreement before the regular season kicks off.
Stephen Jones has echoed this optimism, emphasizing that the goal is to finalize Prescott's extension soon. The urgency is understandable; Prescott, who stepped in for an injured Tony Romo in 2016 and has since become the team's starting quarterback, is an integral part of the Cowboys' future. His current contract, which nets him an average salary of $40 million annually, underscores his value within the organization.
Balancing Finances
According to Spotrac, Prescott's market value currently stands at a staggering $55.1 million annually. This figure highlights the financial considerations the Cowboys must navigate as they work to extend Prescott's contract. While the price tag is hefty, ensuring the presence of a proven leader and playmaker on the roster is invaluable for a team with championship aspirations.
Prescott, for his part, remains focused and unfazed by the ongoing negotiations. "I'm not putting that much thought into hoping it gets done now, hoping it gets done in a couple of weeks, during the season or whenever it happens. I just know conversations are on the right way," he remarked. His composure in the face of looming contract discussions is a testament to his professionalism and dedication to the team's success.
Impact of Other Situations
Complicating matters for the Cowboys is the absence of wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who has been holding out to avoid playing under his fifth-year option. This situation has not gone unnoticed, with linebacker Micah Parsons chiming in on the matter. "CeeDee is a part of this brotherhood whether he likes it or not. He knows he's not going anywhere. The business side, they're gonna take care of it -- no doubt about it. On Week 1, he will be suiting up for the Dallas Cowboys," Parsons asserted.
Lamb's holdout and the need to address his contract situation further add to the intricacies the Cowboys are facing as they gear up for the new season. Balancing the contractual negotiations of both Prescott and Lamb requires careful financial maneuvering and strategic foresight.
Looking Ahead
The Cowboys' commitment to solidifying their roster ahead of the new season is evident. With Prescott's leadership and skill set being central to the team's strategy, securing his future is imperative. Simultaneously, addressing Lamb's contract situation ensures that Prescott has the necessary weapons at his disposal to spearhead the offense.
As the days inch closer to the start of the NFL season, the pressure mounts on the Cowboys' front office to finalize these critical deals. For now, the focus remains on ensuring Prescott and Lamb are locked in as key components of a team with high hopes and even higher expectations.