FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys placed DeMarcus Lawrence under the franchise tag for the second consecutive year back in March, as a placeholder to keep their star edge rusher from becoming an unrestricted free agent.
Jerry Jones remarked on a call from a CBA Meeting in Minneapolis at Lawrence’s press conference “ there was never a doubt we would have DeMarcus on this team. “
After weeks of debate and a deadlock between both parties on a long-term contract, Lawrence had a heart-to-heart conversation with Executive Vice President, Stephen Jones, earlier in the week and an agreement was struck. Both Jones and Lawrence expressed their viewpoints on the issue and came to a similar conclusion: both wanted D-Law to wear a star for several years to come.
‘Tank’ will sign a five-year contract extension worth $105 million that includes $65 million guaranteed. The 27-year-old will make more money in the first year of his contract than any non-quarterback in NFL history and in Cowboys’ franchise history.
The beloved QB hunter has rightfully earned it. In 2018, the premier pass rusher led the team in QB pressures (39), sacks (10.5), and tackles for a loss (12, -21). In addition, he had a career-high 64-combined tackles, was named to the Pro Bowl roster, and the NFL’s top 100 list at No.34.
He may be making more money than any defensive end in team history and be locked in with America’s Team for five additional years, but his focus remains the same. “ My goal is to get a gold jacket…and I have to keep building my resume. “
Lawrence will have surgery on his shoulder Wednesday afternoon and the team is hopeful he will be ready for the season. His competitive nature kicked in at the Star on Tuesday and he assured the media he “WILL be ready for the start of the season. “
DeMarcus has been a force in the Cowboys’ 4-3 defensive front for several years and has made a name for himself as one of the best ends/pass rushers in the league. He is a complete lineman who succeeds in defending the run and pass with his ‘tunnel vision.’ He gives his all on the gridiron week in and week out, and the contract extension is well deserved!! Congratulations No.90.
