“Meanwhile, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones — the unofficial host to the meetings — was standing feet away while Goodell was asked about their relationship. Jones, of course, waged war against Goodell getting his extension following the six-game suspension that was handed down to Cowboys star running back Ezekiel Elliott. Reports have surfaced that Jones and Goodell were very much at odds and it was viewed that Jones has done everything in his power to derail Goodell’s deal from being completed. Jones lost that battle, with Goodell earning the five-year extension that could be worth up to $200 million total. However, the very notable caveat is that — as Lockhard also noted earlier in the day — the contract is highly incentivized and in essence voted on by the teams’ owners as to how much of that sum Goodell actually collects. Goodell tried to sound resolute that any personal feelings have been put to the side between him and the Cowboys owner as they relate to league business and progress. “That’s how we operate in this league,” Goodell said. “We have different views. I think that makes us stronger. I respect Jerry. I respect everyone else in that room. They all have strong views about the way we do things. I think that’s what has made us successful over the years. “My relationship with Jerry has been great. We don’t always agree, and I am not paid to agree [with him]. He’s not paid to agree with me.” Goodell even managed to lighten up and — as he turned toward Jones — crack: “Do I look like I take it personally, Jerry? … No.””
