The Dallas Cowboys kicked off Sunday with a bang: They’re signing tight end Jake Ferguson to a four-year contract extension worth $52 million, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.. 

The deal—which includes $30 million in guaranteed money—comes as a pleasant surprise. Entering a contract year, this season was considered to be a humongous one for Ferguson after having a down year in 2024. A good or bad statline at the end of the campaign could’ve made the difference between seeking top-of-the-market compensation or even missing out on an extension entirely. 

Instead, the Cowboys are making a smart bet with an early extension: By not waiting, they get Ferguson for the seventh-highest price tag around the NFL among tight ends. Ferguson is getting a $12 million signing bonus. Before the deal, he was set to make $3.4 million in 2025.

Not only do the Cowboys look intelligent for getting Ferguson at a relatively low price, but there’s good reason to believe the tight end will take the next step. After all, last year’s dip in production came as a result of a combination of health issues and backup quarterback play. 

The last we saw from a healthy Ferguson was positive. Why expect any different? 

What’s next for Jake Ferguson?

After hauling in 71 catches for 761 yards and five touchdowns in a Pro Bowl season, Ferguson’s play took a hit last year in large part due to a nagging knee injury. With his finances secured, it’s all about taking the next step that was expected of him a year ago. 

Ferguson has proven to be a versatile player for the Cowboys. With a feisty personality that sets the tone on the field, he’s got a knack for yards after the catch and is consistently on the same page with his quarterback, Dak Prescott. The two frequently connect on throws down the field over the seam. But he’s also a more than decent run blocker, mostly because of his willingness to get physical with whoever lines up across from him. 

Ferguson is also expected to build on his already-proven leadership of a tight end room filled with young, talented backups like Luke Schoonmaker and Brevyn Spann-Ford, who are battling it out for TE2.  

Now a $52-million man, Ferguson can focus on balling out. This was a good move for the Cowboys and another example of why it pays to be proactive. Next up, Micah Parsons’ extension.