In a series of press conferences and media appearances, Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has made his intentions unmistakably clear: Dak Prescott is the quarterback he wants leading his team, now and in the future. Speaking at a pre-draft press event in late April and reiterating his stance during an introductory training camp press conference last Thursday, Jones expressed his unwavering desire to secure Prescott as the team's long-term starter.
Prescott’s Stellar 2023 Season
The 2023 NFL season proved to be a standout year for Prescott. He showcased his prowess by leading the league with 36 touchdown passes and finishing second in the NFL voting. Prescott's exceptional performance not only highlighted his skills but also cemented his value to the Cowboys.
Prescott’s remarkable season included setting Cowboys single-game playoff records with 403 passing yards and 41 completions from 60 pass attempts in a nail-biting NFC wild-card round game against the Green Bay Packers. However, the game also underscored some challenges, as Prescott threw two interceptions, including a critical pick-six that proved costly. Despite these setbacks, Jones remains optimistic about Prescott’s potential and future contributions.
Contract Negotiations
Jones has openly acknowledged the complexities surrounding Prescott's ongoing contract negotiations with his agent, Todd France. The recent mega-deals signed by other quarterbacks have added a layer of pressure to the talks. Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa secured a four-year, $212.4 million deal, while Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love inked a four-year, $220 million contract, averaging $55 million a year.
These contracts set a new benchmark in the market for elite quarterbacks, suggesting that Prescott’s extension will require a significant financial commitment. Nevertheless, Jones remains hopeful about reaching a favorable agreement.
“We want Dak Prescott. That’s that,” Jones stated emphatically. He further added, “I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all."
Pride and Optimism
Jones has consistently voiced his pride in Prescott’s achievements over the past eight seasons. He praised Prescott’s leadership and resilience, expressing confidence that an agreement will be reached despite the challenges posed by the escalating quarterback market.
“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 commented.
Jones refrained from making direct comparisons to other quarterbacks to avoid sparking debates, focusing instead on his admiration for Prescott. “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.
Looking Forward
There is no denying that the Cowboys face a challenging path in finalizing Prescott’s contract extension. The market dynamics for elite quarterbacks are continuously shifting, making it essential for the Cowboys to act swiftly and decisively. However, Jones’s determination to tie down Prescott signals a strong belief in the quarterback’s capabilities and importance to the franchise’s future.
“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 remarked, highlighting the fluid nature of negotiations.
Jones is optimistic that Prescott will seize the opportunity to demonstrate his talent and lead the Cowboys to greater heights in the upcoming seasons. His commitment to securing Prescott underscores a broader vision for the team, one that revolves around stability and excellence at the quarterback position.
In conclusion, Jerry Jones’s steadfast support for Dak Prescott affirms the Cowboys' intent to keep their star quarterback in the fold. Prescott's impressive performances and potential for future success have solidified his position as the cornerstone of the franchise. While the contract negotiations may be intricate, Jones's optimism and faith in Prescott’s abilities remain unwavering.