Cowboys Not Close To Long-Term Deal With DE DeMarcus Lawrence, Likely Head For Another Franchise Tag

Calvin Watkins of the Athletic reports that the Cowboys are not close to finalizing a long-term extension with DE DeMarcus Lawrence and he’s likely to be franchised in the coming days.

The recent buzz regarding extension talks between Dallas and Lawrence had been positive, but it sounds like there’s still a big enough gap to be bridged that the Cowboys will tag him and continue to work on a long-term deal before the July deadline. 

Last week, Cowboys executive VP Stephen Jones told reporters on Tuesday that they have been negotiating with Lawrence’s representatives in recent weeks and have submitted their first offer.

According to Jones, they’re hoping to make progress in negotiations this week and are “very confident” about getting an agreement in place. 

“I don’t know the timing, but I’m very confident we can get a deal done,” Jones said, per Jon Machota.

Tom Pelissero reported previously that Lawrence made it clear to the Cowboys last year that he would not sign a second franchise tender and feels he’s earned a long-term extension from the Cowboys.

Mike Garafolo added that Lawrence is looking for $20 million or more per year as part of a long-term extension.

A second straight franchise tag would cost Dallas $20.5 million fully guaranteed for the 2019 season.

Lawrence, 26, is a former second-round pick by the Cowboys in the 2014 NFL Draft out of Boise State. He finished a four-year rookie contract before the Cowboys used their franchise tag on him several months ago.

In 2018, Lawrence appeared in all 16 games for the Cowboys and recorded 64 tackles, 10.5 sacks, an interception, two forced fumbles, a recovery and a pass defense. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 9 overall edge defender out of 103 qualifying players.

We have him featured in our Top 100 – 2019 NFL Free Agents list.