In a high-stakes move that secures the future of one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys have agreed to a monumental contract extension. The new deal, which spans four years and is worth up to $240 million, positions Prescott as the highest-paid player in NFL history.
Record-Breaking Contract Details
Dak Prescott’s new contract with the Dallas Cowboys is nothing short of historic. According to sources, the extension is valued at a staggering $240 million, making Prescott the highest-paid player in NFL history. The deal includes $231 million in guaranteed money and an $80 million signing bonus, further solidifying Prescott’s financial future. This agreement not only surpasses the previous record set by Joe Burrow but also sets a new benchmark with an average annual value (AAV) of $60 million.
Key Aspects of the Extension
The deal’s timing was critical. The agreement, which was finalized only hours before the Cowboys’ season opener against the Cleveland Browns, guarantees Prescott’s stay in Dallas until the 2028 NFL season. Considering Prescott’s recent play and the uncertainties surrounding his future with the organization, this move is very important.
Prescott’s Recent Performance
Dak Prescott, 31, is coming off an impressive 2023 season that saw him lead the league with 410 completions and 36 touchdowns. His performance earned him a spot on the NFL All-Pro Second Team and a second-place finish in MVP voting. With just nine interceptions in his career, Prescott completed 69.5% of his passes for 4,516 yards, a career record.Despite a disappointing playoff exit against the Green Bay Packers, Prescott’s strong regular-season performance was a key factor in the Cowboys’ decision to secure him for the long term.
Cowboys, Dak Prescott Agree To $240 Million Deal via @AnteUpConsult pic.twitter.com/c49SfS2SMP
— Markus Pringle (@_HeavyP) September 8, 2024
Negotiation Leverage and Market Conditions
Prescott’s leverage in the negotiations was substantial. The Cowboys were unable to use the franchise tag on him, and with a weak quarterback free agency and draft class anticipated for 2025, Prescott’s position was strong. His new deal reflects these conditions, setting him apart from other quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Trevor Lawrence, and Jordan Love, who recently signed deals at a $55 million AAV.
Impact on the Cowboys’ Roster
The Cowboys’ recent efforts to lock down their best players are consistent with this deal. Additionally, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb signed a big contract that would pay him $136 million over four years, making him the second most paid non-quarterback in the league. The attention now turns to linebacker Micah Parsons, a two-time All-Pro, who is anticipated to be the next player to sign a significant contract deal. The Cowboys exercised Parsons’ fifth-year option earlier this year, securing his contract through the 2025 season.
Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ Strategy
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had previously indicated that he was “all in” for the 2024 season, despite a lack of major free-agent signings. With Prescott’s deal finalized, it’s clear that Jones is committed to maintaining the core of the team, ensuring that key players like Prescott and Lamb are secured. The extension also allows the Cowboys to focus on a critical 2024 season and plan for future roster moves, including Parsons’ impending contract negotiations.
The signing of Dak Prescott to the richest contract in NFL history underscores the Dallas Cowboys’ commitment to their quarterback and their vision for the future. As the team prepares for the new season, the security of Prescott’s contract provides stability and confidence, allowing the Cowboys to concentrate on building a championship-contending team. With Prescott, Lamb, and potentially Parsons locked in, Dallas is poised for a promising future, reinforcing their commitment to being “all in” on their star players and their pursuit of NFL glory.
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