INDIANAPOLIS — Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones acknowledges disappointing fans during the team’s 30-year Super Bowl drought. Speaking at the NFL scouting combine, Jones expresses determination to build a contender.
“I really can’t accept just the thought of winning one Super Bowl and then what?” Jones states. “I’ve got more time on my clock than that in my mind. I see a chance to put a team together and basically be knocking at the edge and get another one.”
Shift in Free Agency Strategy
Following a 7-9-1 record in 2025, Jones commits to major changes, including heavier spending in free agency. The Cowboys historically target cost-effective signings but plan to increase investments this offseason.
“I would bet that we will spend more money in free agency than we have,” Jones declares.
Creating Salary Cap Space
The team exceeds the $301.2 million salary cap and must restructure contracts to gain flexibility. Restructures for quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, and left guard Tyler Smith free up $66 million. Additional adjustments for defensive tackles Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams, and Osa Odighizuwa address their combined $63 million cap hit.
Jones notes options like adding voidable years for Clark and Williams. “The only way to push more (out) is for me to go borrow some of my future,” he says. “Expect me to go borrow some of my future.”
Defensive Priorities
Jones highlights strengths with Prescott, Lamb, George Pickens, and newly signed running back Javonte Williams. He emphasizes bolstering the defense to improve third-down efficiency and overall performance.
“I want to do everything we possibly can to stop somebody and to basically win some third downs more than we did last year,” Jones explains. “That would be the area that you would see me bust the budget.”
The 2025 Cowboys defense ranked near the bottom in yards and points allowed. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker leads the unit, with Jones expecting improvement from existing players in a changed scheme.
Draft and Trade Possibilities
With two first-round draft picks, the Cowboys aim to add defensive talent. Jones leaves open trades similar to recent acquisitions of Javonte Williams and Kenny Clark. “We have the ammunition to be good at it,” he says. “I wouldn’t hesitate to be good at it if it will help our team.”
At 83, Jones remains resolute. “It’s every bit the prize of anything I have, with the exception of family,” he affirms. “I don’t have a higher priority than to go and win a Super Bowl.”
