As NFL teams analyze their players’ contract situations as the free agent market opens in March, some will realize sooner rather than later that costs will increase drastically to retain their star players.
This is particularly the case for the Dallas Cowboys.
After a division title last season and a 12-5 record, the Cowboys didn’t last long in the playoffs and fans are wondering if the current version can really take the next step. In fact, the real question is whether Dak Prescott is the man for the job at quarterback and the answer will have to come sooner rather than later since Dallas is a bit against the wall.
In 2024, Prescott will expire the last year of his contract and he will account, roughly, for 60M on the Cowboys’ payroll.
As he turns 31 this season, Prescott will have the short end of the stick when it comes time to go to the negotiating table with the Cowboys.
For what ? Because his last contract gave him back power over his next destinations.
First, Prescott has a no-trade clause in his deal. If the Cowboys want to trade him, he should say yes. There is no possible exception.
Then, Dallas won’t be able to apply the franchise player tag on Prescott (franchise tag) next year in order to negotiate with him. If the team wants to retain his services for the next few seasons, negotiations must begin now to agree on the terms of a contract extension.
Otherwise, Prescott will be free as the air in 2025 and he will be able to listen to offers from all NFL teams.
A record of $60M, minimum
According to reports collected by various journalists covering the NFL in the United States, the price of entry to the negotiating table will be $60 million per season.
The duration, bonuses and other terms are where the negotiations will play out.
To put it all into context, in terms of annual salary, Joe Burrow is at the top of the NFL with $55 million per season with the Bengals ($275 million in total). Then follow Justin Herbert ($52.5 million/year) and Lamar Jackson ($52 million/year). Patrick Mahomes received the largest contract in history with the Chiefs $450 million over ten years, but that gives him an annual salary of “only” $45 million.
Prescott, with a starting point of $60 million per year, would sit at the top of the list. On the other hand, at 30 years old, it would be surprising to see him sign a contract for more than five years with this kind of salary. Even 2-3 years is more likely.
Prescott’s contract will also have the mandate to pave the way for future extensions for Trevor Lawrence, for example.
In 2023, the Cowboys quarterback played an excellent regular season with 4,516 passing yards and 36 touchdowns.
Don’t be surprised to see this matter resolved quickly so that the Cowboys can then take care of the other players on the roster.
2024-02-22 15:35:11
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