Roundup of the Cowboys: Priorities for Contract Extensions and Backup Quarterback Strategy

The Dallas Cowboys are in an interesting position as they head into the 2024 offseason. The franchise has built a strong roster, with key players on both offense and defense making substantial contributions in recent years. With a solid foundation in place, the Cowboys are looking to make moves that will help them become a legitimate Super Bowl contender and sustain long-term success.

One of the most pressing issues on the horizon for the Cowboys is managing player contracts. Key members of the roster are either approaching contract years or may be in need of a contract extension. Additionally, the Cowboys face important decisions regarding their backup quarterback situation. Both of these areas require careful consideration and strategic planning, as they can significantly impact the team’s ability to contend for championships while maintaining financial flexibility for the future.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the Dallas Cowboys’ priorities for contract extensions, as well as their strategy regarding the backup quarterback position.

Contract Extensions: Who Deserves a Pay Raise?

The Dallas Cowboys are facing a crucial offseason in terms of contract extensions. Several key players are either nearing the end of their current contracts or have deals that are set to expire soon. Keeping these players, who have proven to be cornerstones of the franchise, will be essential for the Cowboys’ future success. Below are the top priorities for contract extensions that the Cowboys must consider.

1. Dak Prescott (Quarterback)

Dak Prescott is undoubtedly the face of the Dallas Cowboys’ franchise. After being drafted in 2016, Prescott quickly established himself as the team’s leader and a top-tier quarterback in the NFL. Over the years, he has put up impressive numbers and delivered clutch performances, but the team’s postseason struggles have raised questions about his long-term fit.

Prescott’s current contract runs through the 2024 season, and there has been speculation about a potential contract extension. Given his importance to the offense, the Cowboys should prioritize locking him up for the long term, but it will require careful consideration of both Prescott’s performance and the team’s financial situation.

While Prescott has shown he can lead the team during the regular season, his postseason play has been under scrutiny. In order to give the Cowboys the best chance to win a Super Bowl, the franchise may look to structure a contract extension that is team-friendly but reflects Prescott’s place as the team’s leader. The contract should be structured to allow the Cowboys to maintain flexibility to build around him, particularly on defense, and provide him with the necessary weapons to improve in the playoffs.

2. Micah Parsons (Linebacker/Edge Rusher)

Micah Parsons is undoubtedly one of the most electrifying young players in the NFL. The linebacker/edge rusher has emerged as the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ defense and has the potential to become a generational talent. Parsons was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021 and has continued to impress with his ability to disrupt offenses in a variety of ways. His versatility, athleticism, and relentless motor make him a game-changer for Dallas.

Parsons is currently under contract through 2025, but the Cowboys must be proactive in extending his deal well before he becomes a free agent. A long-term extension for Parsons should be a priority for the front office, as it would secure one of the NFL’s best defensive players for the foreseeable future. Parsons’ extension will likely set a new market for top-tier defenders, which means that Dallas will need to be prepared for a lucrative deal that reflects his importance to the team. Securing Parsons’ services for the long term will be vital to the Cowboys’ Super Bowl aspirations, and it will also serve as a key piece in maintaining the strength of their defense.

3. CeeDee Lamb (Wide Receiver)

CeeDee Lamb has blossomed into a top-tier wide receiver since being drafted by the Cowboys in 2020. Lamb has been Prescott’s go-to target, consistently putting up impressive numbers and becoming one of the most dangerous wideouts in the league. With Amari Cooper traded away and Michael Gallup coming off an injury, Lamb has taken on even more responsibility in the Cowboys’ offense. His ability to create separation, make spectacular catches, and stretch the field makes him an invaluable asset to the Cowboys.

Lamb is entering the final year of his rookie contract in 2024, and the Cowboys need to prioritize getting him a new deal. Given his growing prominence as one of the league’s top receivers, Lamb’s contract extension is likely to be a significant investment. Locking up Lamb for the long term would give the Cowboys stability at the receiver position and ensure that Prescott has a reliable playmaker to help elevate the offense.

An extension for Lamb also provides the Cowboys with long-term planning on offense. He has the potential to become the cornerstone of their receiving corps for the next decade, and investing in him now could pay huge dividends in the future. With the salary cap always in flux, securing a deal for Lamb sooner rather than later could also help avoid further complications down the road.

4. Trevon Diggs (Cornerback)

Trevon Diggs is another young, dynamic player who has become one of the most promising cornerbacks in the NFL. Known for his ball-hawking ability, Diggs has established himself as one of the league’s premier playmakers in the secondary. His ability to generate interceptions and force turnovers makes him a key part of the Cowboys’ defense. Diggs has solidified himself as a top-tier corner and is an essential building block for Dallas’ secondary moving forward.

Diggs is entering the final year of his rookie deal in 2024, and the Cowboys should prioritize locking him up for the long term. Like Parsons, Diggs will likely demand a large contract extension, given his ability to impact games and his status as one of the top cornerbacks in the league. Given the increasing importance of the passing game in the modern NFL, securing Diggs’ services would be crucial for Dallas as they look to continue dominating on defense.

The Cowboys will need to navigate Diggs’ extension carefully, as it could have significant cap implications. However, keeping him in Dallas for the foreseeable future would be a wise investment for a defense that is anchored by Parsons and Diggs. Maintaining this strong defensive core is essential for the Cowboys’ championship hopes.

Backup Quarterback Strategy: Solidifying the Depth Behind Prescott

The backup quarterback position is one that is often overlooked but is critical to a team’s success over the course of an entire season. Injuries and inconsistent play can impact even the best starting quarterbacks, and having a capable backup is essential for maintaining playoff hopes. The Dallas Cowboys have experienced this first-hand in recent years, with Prescott missing time due to injury in 2020 and 2022.

As the Cowboys look to solidify their quarterback depth, there are a few options to consider.

1. Cooper Rush: The Reliable Option

In 2022, Cooper Rush proved to be a capable backup for Dak Prescott when he was forced to step in following Prescott’s thumb injury. Rush led the Cowboys to a 4-1 record as a starter, showing poise under pressure and the ability to execute the game plan efficiently. While Rush is not seen as a long-term starter in the NFL, he has proven that he can step in when needed and manage games effectively.

Given his solid performance as a backup, Cooper Rush is a logical candidate to remain the Cowboys’ primary backup in 2024. Rush knows the system, has the trust of the coaching staff, and has the ability to step in and keep the team competitive. Retaining Rush on a reasonable deal would ensure that the Cowboys have a reliable backup quarterback in place.

2. Drafting a Developmental Quarterback

The Cowboys may also look to the draft for a quarterback to develop behind Prescott. A younger, high-upside player could provide the Cowboys with more long-term security at the position. Drafting a quarterback in the middle or later rounds could give the team an opportunity to groom a potential starter while not immediately needing to rely on him.

A developmental quarterback could also provide value if the Cowboys decide to trade him in the future if he shows potential. Building a quarterback pipeline could be key for Dallas, ensuring that they are always prepared for any contingency that might arise.

3. Free-Agent or Trade Options

In addition to keeping Cooper Rush or drafting a quarterback, the Cowboys could explore the possibility of adding a more experienced backup through free agency or a trade. If a veteran quarterback becomes available who can push Rush for the backup spot or provide a higher level of insurance, Dallas could choose to bring in that player.

Veteran quarterbacks who are known to thrive in backup roles, such as Teddy Bridgewater or even players like Nick Foles, could be intriguing options. These players are capable of stepping in for a short period of time and have the experience to lead a team if needed. However, adding a veteran backup could be expensive, and the Cowboys would need to evaluate whether the additional cost is worth the insurance it provides.

A Delicate Balance of Priorities

As the Dallas Cowboys head into the 2024 offseason, they face a series of important decisions regarding contract extensions and their backup quarterback strategy. Locking up key players like Dak Prescott, Micah Parsons, CeeDee Lamb, and Trevon Diggs to long-term deals will be crucial for maintaining the team’s core and keeping their Super Bowl aspirations alive. These extensions will require careful financial planning to ensure the Cowboys can remain competitive while managing the salary cap effectively.

In addition, the Cowboys must address their backup quarterback situation. Whether they continue with Cooper Rush, draft a developmental quarterback, or look to sign a veteran, ensuring that the team has reliable depth at the most important position is a necessity.

The Cowboys are in a strong position to contend for championships, but the decisions they make regarding contract extensions and backup quarterbacks will ultimately determine their long-term success. By making smart moves in these areas, Dallas can continue to build a championship-caliber roster and position themselves for sustained success.