As the Dallas Cowboys' training camp kicks into high gear in Oxnard, California, all eyes are on quarterback Dak Prescott. The seasoned athlete recently took time to address the media, radiating confidence both on and off the field. Prescott, who has become the face of the franchise, shared his thoughts on his current and future contracts, reflecting his unwavering dedication to the team.
A Stellar Performance
Prescott's exceptional performance last season has solidified his status as one of the NFL's elite quarterbacks. Leading the league with 36 touchdown passes in 2023, Prescott exhibited precision and composure, skillfully directing the Cowboys' offense. His impressive passer rating of 105.9 was the second-highest in the league, highlighting his efficiency and decision-making prowess.
As Prescott nears the end of his four-year, $160 million contract, the landscape of quarterback contracts in the NFL continues to evolve. Notable deals have recently been inked by Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence, both securing contracts valued at $275 million. Meanwhile, Green Bay's Jordan Love signed a $220 million contract, featuring a $75 million signing bonus, the largest in NFL history.
Staying Grounded
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Prescott remains focused on the present. "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," Prescott said. His words echo his mindset of staying grounded and maximizing his contributions to the team currently.
"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 added, emphasizing his commitment to the organization and his teammates.
Focus on the Present
Prescott's attitude is reflected in his approach towards contract negotiations. "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." This pragmatic outlook underscores his belief in his representatives and the Cowboys' front office to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
"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," Prescott remarked. His trust in his team and his ability to stay focused on the game rather than the speculation is a testament to his professional maturity.
The Brotherhood
Having grown up with two older brothers, Prescott deeply values the sense of brotherhood. This familial bond extends to his connection with his teammates and the larger fraternity of NFL 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. The money is out there. It can happen. It can be done. There are ways to make everything work for both ways."
Prescott's views on recent contract developments, like Jordan Love's historic signing bonus, also reflect his understanding of the broader implications of player negotiations. "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 explained, indicating his holistic approach to the evolving financial landscape of the NFL.
Leaving It to the Experts
While Prescott's commitment to his team and the game is unwavering, he also acknowledges the role of his agents in navigating contract negotiations. "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."
Conscious of his responsibilities, Prescott stated, "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." His statement underscores his awareness of the precedent his contract can set for future players, balancing personal interests with the collective good.
As Prescott continues to lead the Cowboys in their training camp, his thoughtful approach to his career and contract negotiations serves as an exemplar of professionalism in the high-stakes world of the NFL. His focus remains clear: to be the best on the field, while trusting his team to handle the complexities off it.