There’s been a lot of speculation about cornerback Mike Jenkins’ future in Dallas after the team traded up for Morris Claiborne in the first round of the draft last month.
There’s been word that Jenkins was on the trade block during the draft and reportedly remains there, but there hasn’t been any action. According to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, there isn’t going to be any action in the future either. Jones told the team’s website Wednesday that Jenkins is “a vital part of our plan” and that he isn’t going anywhere.
“Jenkins is not only this year, but a long-term player here as far as I’m concerned,” Jones said.
Jones did say that he’s comfortable spending a lot of money on cornerbacks and that you need four of them to play in today’s NFL. Jenkins could remain in Dallas if Jones sticks to that line of thinking.
Jenkins is set to make just over $1 million as he finishes out his rookie deal. That makes him affordable enough to keep for the season or keep long enough to deal over the summer when someone needs a cornerback. Jenkins is also rehabbing after shoulder surgery and he’d probably see his trade value go up if he’s healthy when training camp rolls around.