Cowboys Reportedly Franchise-Tagging Dak Prescott and Working on Long-Term Deal With Amari Cooper

We knew this was going to be the Dallas Cowboys' plan, but now it's pretty much official as we wait on the team's announcement.

On Monday the Cowboys reportedly franchise-tagged quarterback Dak Prescott to ensure they'd hold onto him and will continue to work on a long-term deal with their star signal caller. In the meantime, they'll also work on a contract for game-breaking wideout Amari Cooper, who is also slated to become a free agent.

BREAKING: The Cowboys have put the franchise tag on Dak Prescott & continue to work on a long-term deal with Amari Cooper.
— David Moore (@DavidMooreDMN) March 16, 2020

This isn't bad news, but it's definitely not great. Cooper will now likely hit free agency, barring a last-second contract breakthrough, and other teams will get a crack at signing him. Meanwhile, the Cowboys continue to seemingly remain in a stalemate with Prescott, who they haven't had much talks with this offseason regarding an extension, based on what VP Stephen Jones relayed to fans recently.

Not only that, but Cowboys legend Troy Aikman said placing the franchise on Dak would be bad business for both sides.

The #Cowboys have placed the franchise tag on QB Dak Prescott, per @AdamSchefter. Barring a last-minute deal, this means Amari Cooper will become a free agent and the rest of the league will have their chance to pry Cooper away from Dallas.
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) March 16, 2020

As for teams in need of a wide receiver, line up! Free agency starts in two days and Amari Cooper will be yours to persuade. The highest bidder wins!