The Future of Dak Prescott with the Dallas Cowboys
The Future of Dak Prescott with the Dallas Cowboys
Dak Prescott remains a cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys' future plans. Despite the myriad challenges that come with negotiating NFL contracts, the franchise is clearly committed to their star quarterback. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," emphasized Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, leaving no room for speculation about Prescott's place on the team.
A Record-Breaking Season
Prescott's performance in the 2023 season has solidified his status as one of the league's elite quarterbacks. Leading the NFL outright with 36 touchdown passes, his on-field prowess speaks volumes. Coupled with his current contract which includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, it's evident that both parties are keen on a long-term relationship.
Business vs. Passion
Prescott himself, though focused on the game, acknowledges the business side of his career. "Business is business. I'll leave it where it gets handled," he noted, emphasizing his commitment to the team during OTAs. His passion for football shines through, "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," Prescott added.
The Ongoing Negotiations
One of the significant hurdles in securing Prescott's future with the Cowboys is the allocation of resources, particularly concerning the salary cap. Jerry Jones, who works tirelessly on these negotiations, sometimes even at two in the morning, understands the delicate balance required. "To be very candid, this is pro football. It has to do with the allocation of your resources, which happens to be cap space," explained Jones.
Jones's strategic vision extends far into the future. "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 stated confidently.
Comparative Contracts
The NFL has recently seen significant contract signings, further highlighting Prescott's value. Trevor Lawrence inked a five-year, $275 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars, while Jared Goff secured a four-year, $212 million contract with the Detroit Lions. These figures set a high bar, but Prescott remains unfazed.
"I'm definitely confident. Obviously, it helps the team. It's important for the (salary cap) numbers. I've heard Jerry say that. That is a process. Both sides understand that. Everything is great. It'll happen," Prescott remarked with optimism about the ongoing negotiations.
Jones's Unique Approach
Jerry Jones's approach to team management is both pragmatic and imaginative, a mixture he believes has brought the Cowboys their success. "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," Jones reflected.
Conclusion
In the end, the mutual respect and understanding between Dak Prescott and Jerry Jones will play a crucial role. Both parties are optimistic that the ongoing negotiation process will lead to a favorable outcome. As Jerry Jones succinctly put it, "Who in the world would think that we're not working on it?"
With the Cowboys' future intricately linked to Prescott's prowess and leadership, fans can rest assured that the star quarterback will likely continue to be the face of the franchise for years to come.