In a landscape filled with uncertainty, one thing is certain: Dak Prescott remains a cornerstone in the Dallas Cowboys' plans for the future. The star quarterback, coming off a stellar 2023 season where he led the NFL with 36 touchdown passes, holds a unique position in the franchise's strategy, as reaffirmed by owner Jerry Jones and Prescott himself.
Commitment to Prescott
Jerry Jones has been unequivocal about his intentions. "We want Dak Prescott. That's that," he emphasized. The sentiment was echoed in his assurance that this would not be Prescott's final year with the Cowboys. "I do not think that this will be his last year with the Cowboys, at all," said Jones, shutting down any speculation about an impending departure.
Prescott's confidence in the organization mirrors that of his owner. When asked about his stance on ongoing negotiations, Prescott said, "Business is business. I'll leave it where it gets handled. Right now, it's about being my best for this team right now in this moment. OTAs is helping these guys out and just focused on that, and I know my business will take care of itself."
Negotiation Challenges
The intricate ballet of contract negotiations is no easy task, particularly in the context of NFL salary caps. Prescott's current contract includes a no-franchise tag and a no-trade clause, giving him certain controlled leverage. "To be very candid, this is pro football. It has to do with the allocation of your resources, which happens to be cap space," said Jones, highlighting the fiscal complexities involved.
Jones takes an around-the-clock approach to these negotiations. "I work on it at two in the morning sometimes," he shared, illustrating his dedication and the behind-the-scenes efforts to secure Prescott's contract. "What your actual question is why don't you have something done and negotiated and put in the drawer? We'd like to see some more leaves fall. We'd like to see some more action."
A Strategic Approach
Leaning on his vast experience, Jones remains optimistic and strategic about the salary cap management. "You're asking me if I worry about things going up. Not worry, but I probably have as good of 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."
This confidence is not without merit, as Jones has overseen similar negotiations in the past, often at unconventional hours. "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," he reflected. "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."
Focused on the Field
Despite the details and clauses embedded in his contract, Prescott remains focused on the team's success. "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. So, I allow that to the business people to say what it's worth what they're supposed to give a quarterback of my play. A person of my play, leader of my play. For me, it's about, as I said, control what I can control and handle that part and the rest will take care of itself," Prescott remarked.
The quarterback also understands the larger picture of team dynamics and salary caps. "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," he stated, indicating his belief that ongoing negotiations will end favorably for both parties.
Indeed, the situation may not be without its complexities, but the mutual respect and understanding between Prescott and the Cowboys' management seem to provide a stable foundation for future success. As both sides continue to navigate these business intricacies, the unwavering goal remains clear: ensuring Dak Prescott continues to lead the Dallas Cowboys to new heights.