Amidst the ongoing discourse over Dak Prescott’s contractual situation, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is focused on the potential for improvement for both his star quarterback and the team in the upcoming 2024 season.
Addressing reporters during the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis, Jones expressed his firm belief that Prescott and the Cowboys have the capacity to elevate their performance next season following a disappointing conclusion to the 2023 campaign:
“Our primary focus is on the team taking the field this year. It’s common knowledge that every team in the league faces constraints regarding salary caps, draft positions, free agents, and the judicious use of franchise tags. These are all factors we must consider. However, I’m confident that we can raise our game. Dak has shown remarkable ability, but I’m convinced there’s even more potential within him. I believe there are areas where we can collectively improve, and we’re committed to doing just that.”
The recurring theme for the Cowboys appears to be a commitment to going “all in” for the upcoming season. Jones elaborated on this concept, although a clearer understanding of the team’s approach will likely emerge as they make roster adjustments.
Presently, the Cowboys face a challenge with their cap space, sitting $4 million over the cap. However, there are avenues available to address this issue, with extending Prescott emerging as the most straightforward solution.
Prescott, entering the final year of his current contract, carries the second-highest cap hit among quarterbacks for the upcoming season at $59.5 million.
Despite Prescott’s uneven performance in the Cowboys’ playoff defeat to the Green Bay Packers, his outstanding regular-season contributions were instrumental in securing the NFC East title. The 30-year-old quarterback achieved career highs in completion percentage (69.5%) and touchdown passes (36).
Jones has not discounted the possibility of allowing Prescott to play out his contract. Should an extension not materialize, the Cowboys could opt to restructure his deal, potentially generating up to $18.5 million in cap space.
In addition to Prescott’s situation, the Cowboys have the option to extend contracts for key players like CeeDee Lamb and Micah Parsons. Lamb, in particular, holds significance as the final year of his rookie contract approaches.
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, the scrutiny on the Cowboys is expected to intensify. With Prescott potentially facing unrestricted free agency next offseason and head coach Mike McCarthy operating on an expiring contract, the stakes are high for the franchise.
Despite consistently winning 12 games annually, McCarthy finds himself under pressure after three consecutive postseason exits in the divisional round.
