The Dallas Cowboys did not hesitate to believe that Dak Prescott will remain under the center of “America’s Team” in 2020. On what type of contract, however, remains to be determined. The Cowboys want to sign Prescott for a long-term extension, but that hasn’t happened yet. The franchise tag has always been an option, but on Friday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Dallas’ back-up plan would likely be the exclusive franchise tag.
The non-exclusive franchise label is worth the average of the first five salaries at the player’s position in the last five years, while the exclusive label is worth the average of the first five salaries of the current year. Another big reason the Cowboys would probably use the exclusive tag is that Prescott couldn’t negotiate with other teams.
The exclusive tag for quarterbacks this offseason is estimated to be around $ 33 million, about $ 6 million more than the usual franchise tag. Dallas believes Prescott deserved it, as it launched a career record of 4,902 yards, 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2019. Although the Cowboys missed the playoffs with an 8-8 record, they Clearly believe that Prescott is the future under the center, and this new head coach Mike McCarthy will be able to make the most of the talented quarterback.
Prescott isn’t the only big free agent the Cowboys have to make a decision on this offseason. On the other side of the ball, cornerback Byron Jones is about to hit the open market, and he should become one of the highest paid cornerbacks in the league. Rapoport reported Friday that Dallas met with Jones’ representation this week and said they should let the cornerback hit the free agency.
“It’s really no surprise,” said Rapoport. “The Cowboys would like to keep all of their players. They just have a lot of other financial responsibilities here. Dak is one. Amari Cooper is another. Byron Jones should be a very well paid corner and could become the highest paid corner in the NFL when all is said and done. “
Earlier this month, CBS Sports Patrik Walker reported that the Cowboys would not let Jones walk without at least making an offer, but that the team will not engage in a bidding war to keep it around. The former Connecticut first choice should be the top corner available in free agency, and CBS Sports contributor Joel Corry, former agent and salary cap expert, believes Jones is likely to order $ 16 million a year.