During a 70-minute interview on “The Stephen A. Smith Show” podcast at The Star in Frisco, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones touched on key issues concerning the team
Ahead of the Cowboys’ season opener in Cleveland, here are some highlights from the interview: Jones sidestepped questions about why he didn’t pursue free agent running back Derrick Henry, choosing instead to re-sign Ezekiel Elliott.
“With Zeke, we had an opportunity,” Jones explained. “I know how much he wanted to return to the Cowboys. Personally, I thought his performance in New England (in 2023) was better than many people gave him credit for. I believe he stepped up in important moments for them.”
“I think Zeke gives us more in short-yardage situations than our fans realize,” Jones added.
Despite criticism for not making any major offseason moves, Jones expressed confidence in the 2024 roster, which will kick off the season in Cleveland on Sunday.
“I feel much better about this team than some of the critics,” Jones said with a laugh. “I’m surprised people don’t recognize how strong a team we’ve put together. I believe we’re better positioned than last year.”
After training camp, the team signed wide receiver CeeDee Lamb to a four-year, $136 million contract. Smith pressed Jones on why it took so long to finalize the deal.
“There was never any doubt about how we felt regarding CeeDee,” Jones said.
“I don’t see contracts as being on a timer,” Jones continued. “The question isn’t when he gets signed but rather when he’s ready to contribute on the field. I wasn’t in any rush.”
Jones attributed the delay to long-term planning. “I have to consider the bigger picture, looking three to five years down the road,” he said. “I feel confident about what the future holds in terms of NFL revenue.”
A key element of that long-term plan includes re-signing quarterback Dak Prescott, though Jones acknowledged it won’t be an easy decision. “Dak is a long-term priority for the Cowboys,” he said.
“I think he improved with Mike (McCarthy) as his offensive coordinator. He made strides last year, but there’s still room for growth,” Jones remarked. “When you compare Dak to other options, you have to think long-term. The alternative isn’t just a one-year situation; it’s a multi-year consideration. Looking at his chances of winning a Super Bowl in the next five years, I like our odds.”
Jones emphasized the importance of finding a financial balance. “We have to ask ourselves, ‘Can we achieve the success Dak deserves, we deserve, and our fans deserve, while still affording Dak?’ I believe we can.”
Beyond these major points, Jones and Smith also discussed Jones’ legacy, the possibility of Deion Sanders coaching the Cowboys in the future, and more.
