Prescott Addresses Future Amid Contract Talks at Cowboys' Training Camp
As the Dallas Cowboys' training camp kicks off in Oxnard, California, all eyes are on quarterback Dak Prescott. Amid rising contract values in the NFL and his own deal nearing its end, Prescott took the opportunity to address the media, sharing his thoughts on his future with the Cowboys and his commitment to the team.
Prescott, who led the NFL with 36 touchdown passes in 2023 and posted an impressive passer rating of 105.9 last season, expressed a strong sense of confidence in both his current and future contracts. He emphasized his dedication to the Cowboys and his teammates, providing a glimpse into his mindset during this pivotal time in his career.
"You know, I'm going to say it: I want to be here," Prescott opened. "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."
Prescott's four-year, $160 million contract is approaching its end, and the quarterback landscape in the NFL is constantly evolving. Recent deals have seen quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence securing contracts worth up to $275 million, while Jordan Love signed a $220 million deal, which included a record-breaking $75 million signing bonus from Green Bay. These escalating contracts underscore the financial landscape Prescott finds himself navigating.
The Cowboys' star quarterback appeared unfazed by the swirling discussions about his contract situation, placing his faith in his agent and the Cowboys' front office to strike a mutually beneficial deal. "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," he stated. "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."
Prescott continued to share his broader perspective about the business side of the NFL and maintaining focus amidst uncertainty. "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," he said, referring to the lucrative contracts awarded to other quarterbacks. "There are ways to make everything work for both ways." Prescott also mentioned the notable signing bonus given to Jordan Love, acknowledging that it's part of pushing the envelope for other players and the league at large.
Illustrating his pragmatic approach to contract negotiations, Prescott added, "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."
As Prescott's future with the Cowboys continues to unfold, his statements convey a player who is grounded, confident, and ready to make the most of whatever comes next. His leadership on and off the field remains firm, ensuring that while contract talks may dominate headlines, Prescott's primary focus will always be the success and unity of his team. The Cowboys and their fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks navigates this crucial juncture in his career.