Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is affecting contract negotiations for NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen.
Jones has allegedly slowed down and perhaps even impeded progress on an extension for Goodell.
“If not for Jerry, this deal would be done,” a source told ESPN.
Goodell’s salary is reportedly a contentious issue for Jones, who believes the commissioner and other league office employees are overpaid.
[blockquote]
One source familiar with the ongoing drama said Jones has argued persistently for months to the committee that other owners believe Goodell makes “way too much money” and demand a pay-cut and a radical change in the formula that compensates the commissioner. Jones also has complained strongly that several other employees of the league office are over-compensated.
[/blockquote]
[blockquote]
Goodell’s earnings of more than $200 million since he was elected commissioner in 2006 — including $44 million in 2015 — is at the core of Jones’ aggressive strategy in communicating with fellow owners.
[/blockquote]
[blockquote]
“Jerry’s not saying, ‘Don’t hire Roger.’ He’s saying, ‘I hate this (proposed) deal, redo it,'” said one source.
[/blockquote]
The league’s compensation committee has a conference call scheduled for Wednesday, which could result in a specific term proposal for Goodell’s extension. Goodell’s current deal for his role as commissioner expires in 2019.
[relatedlinks]