Jerry Jones Reaffirms Commitment to Dak Prescott Amid Contract Talks
Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has once again voiced his unwavering intent to keep quarterback Dak Prescott at the helm, emphasizing the quarterback's importance to the franchise as contract negotiations continue.
Jones made his position clear during a pre-draft press conference in late April, stating his desire to secure Prescott as the Cowboys’ long-term starter. The 2023 season saw Prescott demonstrating his elite capabilities, leading the NFL with 36 touchdown passes and finishing second in voting for the league's top honor.
Speaking passionately during his introductory training camp press conference on Thursday, Jones addressed the complexities surrounding the ongoing contract negotiations between Prescott and his agent, Todd France.
"We want Dak Prescott. That's that," Jones declared unequivocally, making it clear that he envisions Prescott as an integral part of the Cowboys' future.
The contract landscape for elite quarterbacks has shifted significantly, with recent deals signed by Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love setting new benchmarks. Tagovailoa inked a four-year, $212.4 million deal, while Love secured a four-year contract worth $220 million, averaging $55 million annually. These high-value agreements inevitably add pressure to the negotiations between Prescott and the Cowboys.
Prescott's performance on the field has been noteworthy. Last season, he set Cowboys single-game playoff records with 403 passing yards and 41 completions from 60 pass attempts during a wild-card round game against the Packers. However, his performance was marred by two interceptions, including a critical pick-six, which proved costly in the contest. In contrast, Jordan Love delivered a stellar postseason performance, setting franchise records with a postseason passer rating of 157.2 and 13 passing yards per attempt, leading the Packers to a decisive 48-32 victory.
Jones expressed his optimism about reaching an agreement with Prescott, acknowledging the challenges in determining the right contract number but underscoring his resolve to find a solution.
"I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all," Jones stated, exuding confidence about Prescott’s continued presence with the team.
"Yes," Jones responded affirmatively when asked about his confidence in finalizing a deal for Prescott, despite the ramifications of Love's contract.
Reflecting on Prescott's abilities and contributions over the past eight seasons, Jones remains vocal about his pride in the quarterback's accomplishments.
"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 said, illustrating his anticipation for a potential rematch against Green Bay.
Acknowledging the ever-evolving nature of player contracts and market dynamics, Jones remains optimistic about finalizing Prescott's contract.
"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 noted, highlighting his high regard for Prescott.
The Cowboys' leadership is acutely aware of the accelerating market for elite quarterbacks, making it imperative to secure a viable extension for Prescott, whose value to the franchise extends beyond stats and record books.
Jones further emphasized, "We've got a lot we're weighing, and those things change. They change every day. ... It can happen. Let's give Dak credit."
As the Cowboys gear up for the upcoming season, the team's leadership and fans alike are eager to see Prescott continue to prove his capability and lead the franchise to new heights. Jerry Jones's steadfast commitment strengthens the belief in Prescott’s pivotal role in the Cowboys' quest for success.