“So we are excited about it and we still believe in 100 percent of Dak and his future with the Cowboys, and that we can finally come to terms. He is special. As Jerry and I have said, we are 110 percent behind of him, and I finally feel like we will. “
When asked how close to reaching an agreement, Stephen Jones said only that there were extensive conversations up to the deadline.
“I don’t want to use ‘close’ in terms of negotiations. You either make a deal or you don’t,” he said. “We didn’t make it. I wouldn’t blame either side. It’s just one of those things, when you’re talking about a deal as big as this, for our team, not just for Dak but our entire team, the ramifications it has, We certainly want to do well. I know he is respectful to Jerry and me of what we are trying to accomplish, just as we are with him. “
Without a doubt, this is a season that has already seen a lot of changes due to COVID-19 and that uncertainty will likely continue as we get closer to the season. Without making excuses, Stephen Jones cited these unprecedented times as part of the delay in finalizing this contract.
“We have never had one like it. Without a doubt, it is a very interesting moment when you look at what is happening with having to sit down with the union and negotiate what happens with the virus when the income is not where it should be,” Jones said. “So we had some challenges because these were not normal times. We certainly have nothing but respect for Dak and his representation in terms of what they are trying to get out of the deal.”
“They certainly want a shorter deal. Historically, as an administration, we’ve wanted longer deals because it’s more cap-friendly and we’re able to spread a few things and keep some players. At the end of the day, and Dak understands this, that’s what we are trying to do. “
Prescott has signed his $ 31.4 million franchise offer and will play the 2020 season under the label. After the season, the two sides can review their contract conversations and work to get a new contract, or the Cowboys can tag him for a second year. That figure would be in the $ 38 million range. That’s a hefty price regardless of the season, but it could be even higher depending on what happens to next year’s salary cap.
