Dak Prescott Optimistic About Micah Parsons' Future with Cowboys
Quarterback Dak Prescott, seasoned in navigating the complexities of contract negotiations with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, remains optimistic about star defensive end Micah Parsons' future with the team. This confidence persists even as Parsons publicly requested a trade.
When asked if he ever envisions a scenario where Parsons is not on the roster, Prescott replied, "No, not necessarily." He emphasized his belief in both Parsons and the Cowboys' management, stating, "I think if I wouldn't have been in his shoes and have watched other guys be in his shoes and get rewarded, maybe. But I feel like it was last year, I've got faith in Jones and the team, as I do in Micah and his team. So that's who I am, and that's what I'm going to continue to believe and be optimistic. And 11's a Cowboy."
The public nature of contract disputes adds layers of complexity to the situation. Prescott's own experience in 2020, when he played under the franchise tag, taught him how emotionally charged these negotiations can become. He noted that while it was challenging not to take things personally during discussions with Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones, once a deal is finalized, those feelings dissipate.
"It's when the business gets done," Prescott explained. Reflecting on his past dealings, he recalled, "There was some tension between me and the Jones, going back to 2020. I'm playing on the franchise tag, I break my ankle, and I say tension is more so, like, we just weren't talking." He described moments when he would intentionally avoid them until a deal was reached.
Prescott's journey has been shared by many teammates, including CeeDee Lamb, Ezekiel Elliott, and Zack Martin, who have faced similar contract-related challenges. "That's what happens in business," he remarked. "People get emotional, and people make it personal at times. But when that deal happens, like, we can make it go away. Because the tension wasn't personal to begin with."
The crux of the issue between Parsons and Jones appears to stem from their discussions earlier this spring. Prescott maintained open lines of communication with Jones last year but refrained from discussing financial specifics directly, leaving that to his agent. This approach ultimately led to Prescott securing a four-year contract that made him the highest-paid player in NFL history just hours before the 2024 season opener.
"Honestly, I don't know if I do re-sign if I don't have those conversations," he admitted. "And it was much more than it was the numbers, so that's why those conversations were needed."
