Cowboys executive VP Stephen Jones says they’re “more comfortable” signing DE Demarcus Lawrence to a long-term extension after back-to-back years of 10-plus sacks.
“I wouldn’t say we were a long ways apart; we were apart,” Jones said, via the Dallas Morning News. “Certainly DeMarcus has done his part to make us feel more comfortable. He put together now two back-to-back, double-digit sack seasons. Of course he’s a leader by example. … Nothing’s changed in terms of my opinion, except for the better.”
Lawrence was asked about his contract situation at the Pro Bowl on Wednesday and said he loves being a Cowboy.
“I’m good. The Cowboys already know what it is. They know where I want to be. I got big goals, not just for me but us as a team and as an organization,” Lawrence said, per Jon Machota. “I love being a Cowboy.”
Lawrence added the “ball is in [the Cowboys] hands” and he feels like he’s shown he’s committed to the team long term.
“If they don’t want this energy and intensity and this focus every day to get better, then make your move. The ball is in their hands. I feel like I’ve prepared for this moment and showed them I’m here for the long haul.”
The Cowboys used their franchise tag on Lawrence last year and while they could tag him for the second straight year, it would make more sense to pursue a long-term extension this offseason if they believe he’s worthy of the commitment. Otherwise, they could be in a situation next year with very little leverage, as there’s almost zero chance of them using a third straight tag on him.
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.
The franchise tag will cost Dallas around $17.5 million fully guaranteed for the 2018 season.
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 50 – 2019 NFL Free Agents list.
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