The Dallas Cowboys' training camp is in full swing in Oxnard, California, where quarterback Dak Prescott has been the center of media attention. Prescott's leadership and performance have established him as a cornerstone of the Cowboys' franchise, and during a recent press conference, he addressed a variety of topics related to his career and future.
Prescott began by expressing his unwavering commitment to the team, underscoring his dedication to the Cowboys. "You know, I'm going to say it: I want to be here. But you know when you look up all the great quarterbacks I've watched, they've played for other teams. So my point in saying that is that that's not something to fear. That may be a reality for me one day. ... Be where your feet are, make the most of it. Be confident in yourself, make the team better. I love my teammates. I love that locker room. I love everything about being out here in Oxnard and being a Dallas Cowboy. So that's what allows me to be free and focus," said Prescott.
Exceptional Performance Stands Out
Having led the NFL with 36 touchdown passes in 2023 and achieving a passer rating of 105.9 last season—ranking him second-best in the league—Prescott's prowess on the field is undeniable. As he approaches the end of his four-year, $160 million contract, discussions about his future have naturally intensified.
Recent trends in quarterback contracts have seen skyrocketing values, with Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence both securing deals worth $275 million, and Jordan Love signing a $220 million contract, which included an unprecedented $75 million signing bonus from Green Bay, the biggest in NFL history. Prescott's performance and leadership put him in a strong position as he looks to negotiate his next deal.
Focused on the Present
Despite the buzz surrounding potential negotiations, Prescott remains grounded and focused on his current obligations. "I'm not worried about the talk. I've got a great team, and I'm confident in getting something done. Confident in the front office here, and I don't really think about it to be honest with you. As I said the first day, I'm under contract right now, so all I need to do is be the best that I can be for my job and this year. Whatever happens whether it's in a couple weeks—who knows when it is if it does happen, it will happen. I'm not worried about that. I have people that are handling that with the front office, and I have a lot of confidence in them," he stated.
A Brotherhood Beyond the Team
Prescott also emphasized the deep sense of brotherhood he feels within the NFL. "I'm a guy who grew up with two older brothers, and you understand what a brotherhood means, not only for just this team, but the fraternity of the NFL and the players. The money is out there. It can happen. It can be done. There are ways to make everything work for both ways. That's in that sense of pushing the envelope for the next man. That's why I said that. Then again, I've never truly cared about the number," Prescott reflected.
Navigating the Business Side
Approaching contract negotiations with a pragmatic mindset, Prescott appreciates the need for a balance that benefits both player and team. "Whether it was the first time with the franchise tag negotiations or right now, that's why I've said I have an agent that I'm confident in and a front office that we can figure out something that works for both of us and makes sense. ... I've said it before: I have an obligation to the NFL, to other quarterbacks and to my teammates when it comes to what I get paid and what I accept. That's where sometimes I leave it to my agents," he said.
As the Cowboys gear up for another season, Prescott's calm demeanor and focus bode well for the team's prospects. His impressive record on the field and his leadership off it continue to make him an invaluable asset to the franchise.