Stephen Jones teases extensions for Cowboys' DaRon Bland, Jake Ferguson

Could the Cowboys actually get some extensions done early?
Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland on the field before the game against the Washington Commanders.
Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland on the field before the game against the Washington Commanders. / Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

After teasing fans with a quick extension for Osa Odighizuwa this offseason, the Dallas Cowboys quickly put their cement shoes back on before diving into an extension for Micah Parsons.

As is often the case, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones has spun the story into the team's favor, making it sound as if they're doing all they can to get a deal completed quickly. It's hard to blame fans for being skeptical based on recent history, and impossible to judge them if they don't believe Jones after his comments on DaRon Bland and Jake Ferguson.

MORE: Former Cowboys star heaps praise on two rising defensive standouts

Bland and Ferguson each enter their fourth season in the league and are scheduled for free agency in 2026. Jones said they want to keep both players around and want to begin looking at extensions for them.

Bland burst onto the scene in 2023 when he recorded nine interceptions with five pick-sixes. He missed 10 games in 2024 but has proven himself to be one of the premium ball hawks in the NFL.

Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson runs after a catch against the Atlanta Falcons
Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson runs after a catch against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. / Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Ferguson also broke out in 2023 with 71 receptions for 761 yards and five touchdowns. His production slipped this past season but he was dealing with nagging injuries and the loss of Dak Prescott.

Striking up conversations now would be beneficial for the Cowboys, since another big campaign from either will only drive their price tag higher. Despite Jones' assertion that they could look to do this, it's still more likely his words were nothing more than a tease, and both players head into the 2026 offseason needing new deals.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI 

Cowboys fill major need with two-time All-American in new mock draft

Heisman finalist makes 'too much sense' for Cowboys in 2025 NFL Draft

Could Cowboys really trade Micah Parsons if extension talks stall?

Cowboys' 2025 NFL Draft hats feature awesome tribute to America's Team

Meet Reece Allman: Star of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Netflix docuseries


Published
Randy Gurzi
RANDY GURZI

Randy Gurzi is a graduate of Arizona State and has focused on NFL coverage since 2014.