Reporter offers surprising update on Dak Prescott contract situation

The Dallas Cowboys have stated in the open that they hope to extend Dak Prescott’s deal this offseason, but it doesn’t seem like they will be able to do so.

The Cowboys have not yet extended an official offer to Prescott, according to a report from NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport on Tuesday. Dallas is “locked and loaded for this year,” according to owner Jerry Jones, and there have been no indications that a deal would be completed.

A little restructuring agreement between Prescott and the Cowboys recently reduced the quarterback’s projected 2024 salary cap amount from over $60 million to $55.5 million. Although Dallas was able to receive some immediate cap relief from the new agreement, they are still free to negotiate a long-term extension with Prescott.

It is now seriously doubtful that a long-term agreement will be reached before the first week of the following year.

Prescott, who signed a four-year, $160 million contract in 2021, is about to start his final season. With 4,516 yards, 36 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions in 2023, he produced what was possibly his finest NFL season to yet. Given how Prescott played and how high his salary number is, many believed the Cowboys would be obliged to extend him, but it looks like the team is prepared to let the situation play out.

Despite having a season worthy of an MVP award, Prescott struggled in the Cowboys’ unexpected home loss to the Green Bay Packers in the opening round of the playoffs. Many individuals felt that head coach Mike McCarthy was under fire after the outcome of that game. Jerry Jones has made it seem as though he wouldn’t mind if his quarterback had a lame duck season as well.

In five months, a lot can happen, but for now, Prescott and the Cowboys seem to be playing chicken.