The Dallas Cowboys and quarterback Dak Prescott have been engaged in a stalemate on a contract extension for months. Now with Prescott prepared to holdout from the team’s offseason programs, things might finally be turning a corner.
According to The Dallas Morning News’ David Moore, Prescott and the Cowboys have spoken in the past two weeks and the discussions have been very positive.
Discussions between the two sides haven’t always been positive. A few weeks after placing the exclusive franchise tag on their star quarterback, contract talks hit a standstill over the specific length of the extension.
Prescott wants a short-term deal, potentially even following in the footsteps of Kirk Cousins. A shorter extension would allow him to enter free agency before his age-30 season, giving him the opportunity for another mega contract.
However, the Cowboys operate differently. The organization has a history of pushing for long-term deals, often five-plus years, which works against exactly what Prescott is looking for in an agreement.
Prescott’s annual salary seems to be of lesser issue in the discussions. Reports project him to become the highest-paid NFL player ever when he signs his new contract. Currently, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson carries the highest annual average salary at $35 million per season.
There are no concerns for Prescott holding out into the season and the team doesn’t plan to let him hit free agency next offseason. Dallas wants to get this done as quickly as possible, though, and it appears both sides are at least making some progress.