The Dallas Cowboys' training camp is in full swing in Oxnard, California, where quarterback Dak Prescott spoke candidly to the media about his future, both immediate and extended. Prescott's words were a mix of confidence, loyalty, and acceptance of the NFL's ever-evolving landscape.
Prescott's Performance and Contract
Demonstrating unwavering dedication to the Cowboys, Prescott led the NFL with 36 touchdown passes in 2023 and boasted an impressive passer rating of 105.9, the second-best in the league. As he nears the end of his four-year, $160 million contract, Prescott addressed inevitable discussions about his future with the team.
"You know, I'm going to say it: I want to be here," Prescott remarked. "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."
The Modern Quarterback Market
Prescott's current contract places him among the top earners in the league, but recent quarterback contracts have reached new heights. Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence inked deals worth $275 million, while Jordan Love signed a contract valued at $220 million. Notably, Green Bay handed Love a $75 million signing bonus, the largest in NFL history.
Amid this financial escalation, Prescott remains unfazed. "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."
Commitment Beyond Numbers
Prescott's approach highlights his understanding of the player fraternity within the league. Reflecting on his journey and the example set by other quarterbacks, he emphasizes the balance between personal success and the broader impact on the NFL's contract dynamics.
"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," Prescott shared. "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."
This sentiment underscores his broader perspective and the role he plays in shaping the market for future quarterbacks. Even as financial figures reach astronomical heights, Prescott remains grounded in his commitment to the team and the sport.
Looking Forward
As Prescott and the Cowboys continue with their training camp in Oxnard, the quarterback's focus remains on the present, contributing to the team's success while also laying the groundwork for his contractual future.
"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," Prescott concludes.
Prescott's pragmatic yet optimistic outlook sets the tone for what promises to be an intriguing season for the Cowboys and their star quarterback. As contract discussions loom, Prescott's commitment to the game and his team remains his guiding principle, ensuring that no matter what the future holds, he is ready to rise to the occasion.