Owner Jerry Jones made it clear Tuesday that the Cowboys hope to keep Dez Bryant in Dallas for the rest of the wide receiver's career.
After listening to reports of last week's missed curfewblown out of proportion, Bryant isn't in a conciliatory mood regarding his contract issue this week.
"I just know what I'm going to accept and I know what I'm not going to accept," Bryant said Wednesday, via the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. "You know, it's not about the money. It's not about none of that. I just feel like a little respect should play a factor in that."
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Wednesday's Around The NFL that negotiations haven't transpired "for some time." Rapoport also reported that Bryant wants a contract in line with the on-the-field value he brings to the Cowboys, which would be in the range of $16 million per season.
Rapoport added soon-to-be free agent wideouts in Bryant's class -- A.J. Green and Demaryius Thomas -- are expected to fetch $13-14 million per season.
"I love it (here). I really do. But every day you grow. Let's see what happens. It's all about respect. It's all about respect. I am a very loyal person, but just don't test my loyalty."
Whether Bryant is referencing the Cowboys' unwillingness to offer more guaranteed money or Rapoport's report that the organization still harbors "genuine concern" over off-field behavior, the star receiver is sending a not-so-veiled message to Jones.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast discusses Dez Bryant's contract situation and eliminates more teams from playoff contention during "Stick a Fork in 'Em." Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
