Dec 23, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) throws in the pocket against the New Orleans Saints at Cowboys Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Being perhaps the quietest free agency period in recent memory for the Dallas Cowboys, owner Jerry Jones has made it clear who his QB will be long-term. And that QB, ladies and gentlemen, will be none other than Tony Romo. Both sides have agreed on a 6-year extension that will be worth a maximum of $108 million, with $55 million of which is guaranteed. This deal is the single richest contract ever signed by a member of the Dallas Cowboys. One significant feature of this contract, is the amount of money he will earn through the first 3 years. As Albert Breer explains:
One significant number on Romo's six-year, $108M extension -- $57 million due over its first three years (2013-15).
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 29, 2013
But, perhaps the biggest factor in this land-breaking deal, is he will earn more guaranteed money than reigning Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco. Currently, Joe Flacco’s latest deal includes $52 million in guaranteed salary through the entirety of his contract. Tony Romo, on the other hand, will earn at least $55 million in guaranteed salary. Tony Romo, at this point in his career, has exactly 1 win in 5 post-season appearances. Not only does this outrageous deal come as a complete surprise to many people around the NFL, but it could have an enormous on the on-going negotiations between the Green Bay Packers and their elite QB in Aaron Rodgers. Since the past 2 major QB contracts have both went over $50 million in guaranteed monies, it opens the door to a possibility Aaron Rodgers could earn up to $60 million in guaranteed money. Outside from the outlandish amount Tony Romo is guaranteed, there is a positive aspect to this contract.
As Ed Werder described in the video provided with the link earlier, Jerry Jones wanted to ensure Tony Romo will retire as a Dallas Cowboy. A 6-year extension makes that a real possibility now. Also, in a rather strange twist, this huge deal will in fact save them money, as it ultimately reduces Tony Romo’s cap hit on the team’s salary cap. Prior to this move, the Cowboys signed LB Justin Durant to a 2-year deal worth $4.4 million, and have an agreement in place with former Steelers’ Safety Will Allen. They were already tight against the cap thanks to the sanctions imposed by the NFL, so creating cap space was an absolute must in order to make those signings, and any further additions possible. Now, the Cowboys are able to make more roster moves thanks to this history making deal.
What’s next for Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys? Who knows,