Current Contract Situations of Cowboys’ Stars
OXNARD, Calif. — In recent months, Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons have been central figures in discussions about the Dallas Cowboys’ major internal business. As the team’s training camp progresses, distinct dynamics are emerging concerning these players. While Parsons seems poised to wait until 2025 for his deal, Lamb is pressing for immediate action following the precedent set by Justin Jefferson in Minnesota. Prescott’s situation, however, is more complex.
Prescott’s Contract Complexity
Entering the final year of a contract valued at $40 million APY (average per year), Prescott faces a significantly higher cap hit of approximately $55 million in 2024 due to prior restructuring. Both the Cowboys and Prescott have expressed interest in a long-term relationship, although a future separation remains a possibility. Prescott holds unique leverage due to his no-trade clause, and he could explore the open market if negotiations don’t progress. This has been the static backdrop since the offseason.
Impact of Recent Quarterback Contracts
Recent contract extensions for quarterbacks Tua Tagovailoa and Jordan Love—worth $53.1 million and $55 million APY, respectively—add urgency to Prescott’s negotiations. With four of the top five quarterbacks signed this offseason now earning between $52 million and $55 million APY, the landscape has shifted. Tagovailoa and Love’s contracts, signed shortly before Prescott’s 31st birthday, have raised expectations for Prescott’s future deal.
Negotiations and Expectations
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has publicly stated he doesn’t believe this will be Prescott’s final season with the team, though he remarked that he often doesn’t get what he wants. Prescott expressed his desire to stay in Dallas but acknowledged that other elite quarterbacks haven’t always remained with a single team. Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones indicated that ongoing discussions with Prescott’s agent, Todd France, could lead to progress. However, actions will ultimately determine the path forward.
Considering the new market standard set by recent quarterback contracts, the Cowboys face a challenge if they wish to secure Prescott for the long term. Prescott’s average annual salary will likely exceed $55 million, especially if he opts against settling for less in light of weak upcoming quarterback options in 2025 and a thin free agency market.
As the Cowboys’ internal contract negotiations continue, some see the organizational delay as an indicator of indecision or a rigid internal stance on expectations for Prescott. Jerry Jones noted that comparisons to other quarterbacks could lead to complications, emphasizing the need for Prescott to perform in crucial moments to solidify his contract aspirations.
In summary, the Dallas Cowboys must navigate a challenging negotiation landscape as the contract situations of their star players evolve, particularly for Dak Prescott, whose future remains a topic of critical importance.
Source and credits: www.nytimes.com
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