The Dallas Cowboys' training camp is in full swing in Oxnard, California, and quarterback Dak Prescott has remained a focal point both on and off the field. Recently, Prescott took the time to address the media, shedding light on his thoughts about his contract and his unwavering dedication to the team.
Confident in Contract
Prescott's sentiments during the press conference radiated confidence regarding his future with the Cowboys. He didn't shy away from discussing the possibility of playing for another team down the line, yet he emphasized his current focus and commitment to the Dallas Cowboys.
"You know, I'm going to say it: I want to be here," Prescott stated. "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."
Strong Performance on the Field
Prescott's recent performances have been impressive, to say the least. In 2023, he led the NFL with 36 touchdown passes and posted a passer rating of 105.9, the second-best in the league. These statistics underline his prowess as one of the leading quarterbacks in the NFL.
He is, however, nearing the end of his four-year, $160 million contract. With the recent surge in quarterback contracts, highlighted by Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence signing deals worth $275 million each, and Jordan Love securing a $220 million contract with a $75 million signing bonus from Green Bay (the largest in NFL history), the landscape for quarterback negotiations is more competitive than ever.
Focused on the Present
Despite the buzz surrounding his contract, Prescott displayed a sense of calm and trust in the negotiations process.
"I'm not worried about the talk," Prescott shared. "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."
Brotherhood and Obligations
Prescott touched on the broader sense of camaraderie within the NFL, noting how individual contract negotiations can set precedents for fellow players.
"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 said. "The money is out there. It can happen. It can be done. There are ways to make everything work for both ways. ... Then again, I've never truly cared about the number."
He also reflected on his responsibilities to the league and his peers, hinting at the complexity of the contract discussions he finds himself navigating.
"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," Prescott noted. "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 the Cowboys continue their preparations for the upcoming season, Prescott’s focus remains unshakable. His dedication to his teammates and his leadership on the field are evident, underscoring his role as a pivotal figure in the Cowboys' quest for success. While the future may hold uncertainties regarding his contract, Prescott's present is marked by conviction and a clear commitment to excellence.