The future of franchise quarterback Dak Prescott in Dallas has been a topic of intense debate. But amidst questions over the Cowboys’ ability to retain their star signal-caller long-term, owner Jerry Jones boldly predicted how Prescott would achieve the ultimate NFL success.
In a recent statement, Jones expressed unwavering confidence that Prescott has what it takes to capture an elusive Super Bowl title for America’s Team. “I think there are a handful or more of quarterbacks playing who haven’t won a Super Bowl that will win a Super Bowl,” Jones said. “I think Dak is one of them. I’m firm there.”
Jones’ lofty proclamation comes on the heels of the Cowboys’ decision to let All-Pro left tackle Tyron Smith depart in free agency. Smith inked a lucrative one-year deal worth up to $20 million with the New York Jets.
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“I think there are a handful or more of quarterbacks playing who haven’t won a Super Bowl that will win a Super Bowl.
“I think Dak is one of them. I’m firm there. He’s one of the ones who can.”
_ Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on Dak Prescott. pic.twitter.com/pZjDACIQqA
— David Moore (@DavidMooreDMN) March 24, 2024
While the offensive line takes a hit, Jones remains bullish on Prescott’s championship upside despite his pedestrian 2-5 postseason record. Meanwhile, moving 2022 first-round pick Tyler Smith from guard to replace the Tyron at left tackle is being strongly considered as “a viable thing” according to Jones.
The path forward centers on solidifying protection for Prescott, whom Jones envisions hoisting that elusive Lombardi Trophy at some point. With Tyron Smith’s exit setting up a reshuffled offensive line, all eyes turn to how effectively the Cowboys can regroup around their franchise QB as his title window continues. In the midst of this, Jones also made a revelation on why the team was forced to move on from Tyron Smith.
Dallas Cowboys decided to move on from Tyron Smith!
Jerry Jones, in his candid admission, revealed that the Cowboys basically couldn’t afford to keep elite left tackle Tyron Smith, According to Jones, playing time incentives in Smith’s new contract could have ballooned the cost over $20 million, which was too rich for Dallas’ liking.
Per Jerry Jones, the Cowboys couldn’t afford to keep Tyron Smith and chance him hitting the incentives in the Jets deal. Tyler Smith is the working option at left tackle going into the draft
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) March 24, 2024
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This acknowledges a potential financial limitation when it came to retaining the 33-year-old eight-time Pro Bowler. Smith’s Jets deal is for a $6.5 million base salary, but he can earn up to $12 million more through playing time and playoff incentives – making it a potential $20 million payout Dallas wasn’t willing to match.
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The loss of Smith is a major blow to the Cowboys’ offensive line and Prescott’s protection. Smith had been one of the league’s premier blindside protectors over his 13 years in Dallas. His departure leaves a gaping hole that Jones hopes can be adequately filled by 2022 first-rounder Tyler Smith making the transition from guard to left tackle. While talented, replacing a perennial All-Pro like Tyron Smith is an extremely tall task that could impact Prescott’s ability to take that next step.
Read More: Colin Cowherd Calls Jets’ Tyron Smith Signing Smart Despite It Mostly Being a One-Year Rental