Following the successful conclusion of contract extension negotiations with CeeDee Lamb earlier this week and the return of the star wide receiver to the team, the natural focus shifts to Dak Prescott, who is on the verge of playing out his contract year with the Cowboys once more in 2024 if an extension agreement is not reached.
It’s an intriguing problem for both parties. For Prescott, signing now might mean foregoing a larger contract that could fetch well over $60 million on the free market next spring. For the Cowboys, securing their quarterback now secures him long-term, but will the price remain high when huge quarterback deals come down next offseason?
Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones stated on Wednesday that “Dak is here” and that there is “no more to do” to ensure that the squad is ready to play against Cleveland on September 8. There does not appear to be any rush on either side to complete the transaction before that date.
“Not really sure,” Prescott answered when asked if he would be the next Dallas Cowboys player to sign a large contract. “To be honest, this is no longer my main focus. I can’t say it was ever my priority. “It’s about improving this team.”
“It’s up to [agent Todd France] and those guys. I am not going to be a part of them once the season begins. They’ve been going through Todd and Stephen [Jones] both. It’s all part of it.
While some players would want to know that their future is certain heading into a contract year, Prescott has always worked differently, dating back to when he was franchise tagged in 2020. “I don’t need it,” he answered when asked if it needed to be completed by the conclusion of the season. “I believe it speaks a lot whether it is or not. To be honest with you, it makes little difference to me.
And if it isn’t, what does that tell Prescott?
“Just how people feel,” he said with a smile.
Prescott, a seasoned veteran of both on-field experience and contract negotiations, has always remained focused on the present. Even with his future uncertain, Prescott would have to do something drastic to not be one of the top paid players in the NFL a year from now. For him, going into 2024 with the intention of completing the task at hand brings him peace.
“I’m blessed to play this game, to be in year nine, to do what I do and be as healthy as I am,” Mr. Prescott said. “Based on my experiences, I consider myself fortunate to be able to play this game. I get a lot of money for doing that. I’ve already been paid; getting paid again is only part of it.
I’m due for it, whether it’s signing here or somewhere else, which I don’t want to think about now. It’s all part of it. With 10 days until the season begins and a mountain of uncertainty about the future looming, it’s clear where No. 4 stands.
