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Jerry Jones ‘optimistic’ Cowboys will work out contract with Dez Bryant

Dez Bryant Dak Prescott

In recent weeks, Stephen Jones has indicated, multiple times, that Dez Bryant’s tenure with the Dallas Cowboys could be coming to an end. On Saturday at the combine, Jerry Jones said he believes Bryant will be with the ‘Boys in 2018.

“I don’t want to give any answer that implies that I have anything in mind, but he is with the Cowboys,” Jerry Jones said, per Jon Machota of SportsDay. “He is under contract. We have not done anything that alters getting our returning contract players. We have not done anything that would alter counting on them being on the field next year. So, as we sit right here, yes.”

The big issue at this time is that Bryant’s $16.5 million 2018 cap hit doesn’t match up with his production the past few seasons. From 2015-17, Bryant has averaged just 50 catches for 678 yards and less than six touchdowns per year. On that note, a report emerged on Friday that other NFL teams don’t see Bryant as a No. 1 receiver any more, which the stats illustrate to perfection.

Still, Jones believes Bryant will be a member of the Cowboys next season, citing his relationship with the receiver. He expressed optimism that the two sides will come together on a contract that will be beneficial to both sides and keep Bryant in Dallas.

“Specifically on a personal basis, I have had a lot of business with Dez over the years. A lot,” Jerry Jones said. “And I have been very involved with not only his contract negotiation, but in many cases, his other personal business. So it’s just not awkward at all to visit.

“We plan on visiting with him about his business. We are both very comfortable being very candid. When you got that kind of relationship that I do with him then I’m optimistic when I am sitting here this time next year we would have done a real good job on his business.”

Clearly, Bryant will have to take a pay cut. Dallas cannot afford to keep him on his current deal — $16.5 million cap hit the next two seasons. So, if he does remain on, as it’s been reported recently, it’ll have to be via an extension that helps the Cowboys financially.

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