The debate over which players the Cowboys should prioritize during free agency over the next two years has been hotly contested, but Stephen Jones is making the team’s intentions very clear.

After picking up running back Ezekiel Elliott’s fifth year option to fill out his rookie contract, Stephen Jones joined the Pro Football Talk podcast to discuss their future plans for the All Pro running back.

“He’s the straw, if you will, that stirs our drink. He’s a key part of what we’re about.” – Stephen Jones

The chief operating officer of the Dallas Cowboys is looking to re-sign Ezekiel Elliott quickly, despite what a small but strong section of fans may feel about the value of the running back position. Jones and the Cowboys clearly view Elliott as much more important than the normal running back, and are planning to extend him longterm.

“Certainly, he’s a priority in terms of ultimately getting him signed” – Jones

Elliott has certainly been good enough to earn a new contract, leading the league in rushing two of his first three seasons. Elliott also emerged as a receiving threat in 2018, catching a career high 77 catches for 567 yards.

But with players at more premier positions, like Dak Prescott, Amari Cooper, and Byron Jones, also looking for new contracts with the Cowboys, there likely won’t be enough money to go around. Stephen Jones has been clear that Cooper and Prescott are in line for new deals as well, but Byron Jones hasn’t gotten much publicity for the COO.

This makes me think that the new-looked triplets will be together for the foreseeable future. And if their debut season together in 2018 is any sign of what the future will look like, Cowboys Nation should get excited.