Jerry Jones gives clarity on $160 Million Dak Prescott’s contract extension
Dak Prescott is in contention for his first MVP award as the Dallas Cowboys aim for their first Super Bowl win since 1995. Despite his impressive performance, there’s ongoing discussion about his contract extension. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones addressed this during a recent league meeting in Texas, acknowledging the complexities of potential restructuring to secure a new deal with the star quarterback.
Prescott currently ranks among the top five in the NFL for passing yards (3,505) and passer rating (107.5), leading in touchdowns with 28. He’s earning $31 million this season, the eighth-highest among quarterbacks, and has previously guided the Cowboys to four playoff appearances.
“I’ve never thought that we wouldn’t be making a contract. I think that’s the best way for me to say it. The idea of doing it or not doing it has not been on the table from my perspective period at any time here… Here’s the thing, this is sensitive in it does involve moving around assets. That’s not Dak causing that, that’s just what happens.”
Jones added:
“It’s sensitive, so the fact that we’re anticipating having a new contract takes all of that into account. We know there’s going to be [restructuring]. You can’t have it all. It’s going to be some adjustments to get it done.”
Dak Prescott is slated to earn $34 million in 2024 without a contract extension, as he is currently under the terms of the four-year, $160 million extension he inked in March 2021. Nevertheless, the pressing issue for Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is the considerable cap number associated with Prescott.
As it stands, Prescott’s cap number for the upcoming season is $59.5 million, ranking second only to Deshaun Watson of the Cleveland Browns, who has a cap number of $64 million. According to Spotrac, Prescott’s market value is estimated at $47.5 million per season for the next four seasons.
Complicating matters is Jones’ desire to extend contracts for both wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and linebacker Micah Parsons. Lamb is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season, while Parsons’ free agency looms after the 2026 season. Balancing these financial considerations will be crucial for Jones to ensure the team’s long-term success without jeopardizing key players like Lamb and Parsons in the future.