In the days leading up to the NFL Draft, it was understandable why Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said a new contract for quarterback Dak Prescott was not his top priority.
But now, with the draft over, a deal for Prescott has again returned to the forefront as the Cowboys’ top focus.
But the two sides remain at an impasse in contract negotiations.
Prescott has not only yet to sign the exclusive franchise tender that will pay him $31.4 million in 2020 but he also is not taking part in the team’s virtual off-season program.
Vice president Stephen Jones, however, remains confident an agreement will be worked out with their franchise quarterback that is in the best interest of everyone.
“The bigger these deals get, the bigger the dollars get, the harder they get,” Jones said. “We believe in our track record of getting players signed. I totally believe we’ll get Dak signed at the right number that’s good for Dak, good for the Cowboys, good for the team. We certainly want Dak to be happy, but we also want to surround him with great football players.”
The Cowboys have offered Prescott a deal that would match Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson’s $35 million annual salary as the highest-paid player in the NFL. But the sides remain at odds over contract length and structure.
Prescott wants a four-deal. The Cowboys want something five years or longer to help them manage the salary cap.
They have until July 15 to get a deal done or Prescott will have to play the season under the franchise tag.
In the interim, the Cowboys are not concerned with Prescott missing the off-season program.
One way or another, Prescott will be on the field in a Cowboys uniform when the 2020 season kicks off, owner Jerry Jones said.
‘When we’re ready to play, he’ll be there,” Jones said.
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