The Dallas Cowboys have to make a big decision about their defensive lineman DeMarcus Lawrence. He had played this season under the franchise tag, which paid him $17.143 million. This doesn't give him much long-term stability. He's been very clear that he will not play under a tag again next season.

Fortunately for him, the organization “feels more comfortable” to give Lawrence a long-term deal after his play the past two seasons. He has played in all 32 games the past two seasons, collecting a total of 25 sacks, an interception, and six forced fumbles. The Pro Bowler has proven to himself and the team that he deserves a big contract moving forward.

Jerry Jones told the Dallas Morning News:

“I wouldn’t say we were a long ways apart; we were apart. Certainly, DeMarcus has done his part to make us feel more comfortable. He put together now two back-to-back, double-digit sack seasons. Of course, he’s a leader by example Nothing’s changed in terms of my opinion, except for the better.”

Lawrence loves being a Dallas Cowboy and wants to stay there. However, he knows that as a free agent he is looking for the best contract in the market for him.

Lawrence told Jon Machota of the Dallas Morning News:

“I’m good. The Cowboys already know what it is. They know where I want to be. I got big goals, not just for me but us as a team and as an organization. I love being a Cowboy. If they don’t want this energy and intensity and this focus every day to get better, then make your move. The ball is in their hands. I feel like I’ve prepared for this moment and showed them I’m here for the long haul.”

Last season, the Cowboys finished 10-6 in the regular season and finished first in the NFC East division.