It sounds like the Dallas Cowboys are facing a significant financial challenge in retaining key players like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons. Stephen Jones, the team’s chief operating officer and co-owner, mentioned that they are actively working on managing their finances to accommodate these contracts. This suggests they’re strategizing to ensure they can keep these valuable players despite the financial demands involved.

Stephen Jones’s statement highlights the financial challenges the Dallas Cowboys face with regards to contract negotiations for key players like CeeDee Lamb and Micah Parsons. He mentioned on The Athletic’s “Scoop City” podcast that Lamb and Parsons, despite not being quarterbacks, are seeking contracts that reflect their value similar to top-paid non-quarterbacks in the league, citing Justin Jefferson of the Vikings as an example. This suggests that negotiations are likely centered around ensuring these players are compensated fairly relative to their performance and market value in the NFL.

Stephen Jones emphasized Dak Prescott’s impressive resume and acknowledged the substantial financial considerations involved in retaining him, CeeDee Lamb, Micah Parsons, and other key players drafted by the Dallas Cowboys. He mentioned the complexities of managing the financial aspects while trying to keep these valuable players within the team’s roster. Jones also alluded to the challenge of balancing the salary cap to accommodate their salaries, highlighting their efforts to creatively manage the team’s finances to sustain its competitive edge.

Stephen Jones acknowledged the significant financial challenge facing the Dallas Cowboys in negotiating contracts for CeeDee Lamb and Micah Parsons, who were first-team All-Pro selections in 2023. He also highlighted the impact of Justin Jefferson’s contract extension, which set a new benchmark for non-quarterbacks in the league. This context underscores the complexities involved in managing the Cowboys’ salary cap while striving to retain key players like Lamb, Parsons, and their veteran quarterback, Dak Prescott.

Last month, the Minnesota Vikings signed Justin Jefferson to a landmark four-year, $140 million extension. This deal marked the highest annual average salary for a non-quarterback in NFL history, setting a new standard in contract negotiations outside the quarterback position.

Stephen Jones highlighted the financial challenge of negotiating deals for Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons, acknowledging that it’s achievable but requires careful negotiation and flexibility. He referenced the Minnesota Vikings’ situation after signing Justin Jefferson to a significant contract extension, noting that Jefferson’s deal stands out as an exceptional move in terms of salary allocation. Jones pointed out that besides Jefferson, the Vikings don’t have any other player earning over $20 million annually, indicating the strategic decisions necessary to balance a team’s payroll effectively.

Stephen Jones acknowledged the financial commitments the Dallas Cowboys have to several key players, including Dak Prescott, Trevon Diggs, Zack Martin, and DeMarcus Lawrence, who are earning significant salaries. Despite these financial obligations, Jones expressed confidence that they can manage the situation and negotiate contracts effectively. He emphasized that while it’s a complex process, they are committed to retaining their core players and believe they have the capability to do so, albeit requiring time and careful planning.

Stephen Jones acknowledged the significant financial commitments the Dallas Cowboys have to key players such as Dak Prescott, Trevon Diggs, Zack Martin, and DeMarcus Lawrence, who are all earning substantial salaries. Despite these financial obligations, Jones expressed confidence that they can effectively manage the situation and negotiate contracts. He highlighted the complexity of the process but emphasized their commitment to retaining their core players. Jones believes they have the capability to achieve this goal, although it will require careful planning and time to execute effectively.

CeeDee Lamb, aged 25, will be playing under a $17.99 million fifth-year option in 2024. Meanwhile, Micah Parsons, also 25, has one year remaining on his four-year, $17.1 million rookie contract. The Cowboys have exercised Parsons’ option for 2025, which amounts to $21.3 million, making him eligible for a contract extension

“We are optimistic that we can get these guys signed,” Jones stated on the podcast. “I know with Dak, our goal is to get him signed. He understands that. We’re actively engaging in conversations with his agent and Dak himself, both Jerry (Jones) and I. Dak knows our priority is to keep him here. He’s aware of the challenges involved.”