Dallas Commits $30 Million Guaranteed to Pro Bowl Tight End, Betting on Bounce-Back Season
Dallas, TX – July 27, 2025 – The Dallas Cowboys and tight end Jake Ferguson have agreed to a four-year, $52 million contract extension, with $30 million guaranteed, as reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. This new deal makes Ferguson the highest-paid tight end in Cowboys franchise history and secures his place with the team through the 2029 season.
Ferguson, a fourth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin, has steadily grown into Dallas’s primary tight-end option. While his rookie campaign in 2022 was quiet (19 receptions for 174 yards and 2 touchdowns), he had a breakout year in 2023, setting career highs with 71 receptions for 761 yards and 5 touchdowns, even earning Pro Bowl honors.
However, Ferguson’s production saw a dip in 2024, as he recorded 59 receptions for 494 yards and notably did not score a touchdown. This statistical decline can be partially attributed to quarterback Dak Prescott missing over half the 2024 season due due to injury, as the two have demonstrated strong chemistry when healthy. Ferguson also dealt with a knee sprain and a concussion in 2024, impacting his performance. Despite the reduced numbers, he still ranked second on the Cowboys last season with 86 targets.
Looking ahead to 2025, there’s a possibility of fewer targets for Ferguson with the addition of wide receiver George Pickens, who joined the Cowboys in the offseason, alongside returning target-hog CeeDee Lamb. However, with Prescott back to full health and the offensive scheme under Brian Schottenheimer focusing on motion and play-action, Ferguson is poised for a bounce-back campaign. The Cowboys’ commitment to him with this substantial extension clearly indicates their belief in his long-term importance to the team’s offense.
Ferguson has openly expressed his desire for a bounce-back year in 2025, specifically aiming to get back into the endzone after his touchdown-less 2024 season. He has emphasized his strong connection with Prescott, particularly on seam routes, which they have consistently worked on. The presence of multiple offensive weapons like Lamb, Pickens, Luke Schoonmaker, and other young players is expected to make it challenging for defenses to cover everyone, potentially creating more opportunities for Ferguson.