The Dallas Cowboys have returned to Oxnard, California, for their training camp, and all eyes are on quarterback Dak Prescott. As the centerpiece of the team's offense, Prescott recently took the opportunity to address the media, discussing his confidence in both his performance and his contractual future.
Prescott's Stellar Performance
Leading the NFL with 36 touchdown passes in 2023 and achieving a passer rating of 105.9, the second-best in the league, Prescott has consistently proven his worth on the field. As he approaches the end of his four-year, $160 million contract, Prescott's future with the Cowboys remains a topic of considerable interest.
"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, reflecting on his career and the possibilities that lie ahead. He added, "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."
Contract Talks Heating Up
The landscape of NFL quarterback contracts has shifted dramatically, with recent deals pushing the financial envelope. Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence have inked contracts worth $275 million, while Jordan Love signed a $220 million deal, including a record-breaking $75 million signing bonus from the Green Bay Packers.
Despite these astronomical figures setting new benchmarks, Prescott remains focused on his current role and responsibilities with the Cowboys. "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," Prescott shared. "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."
The Brotherly Bond and Financial Realities
Prescott also touched on the camaraderie and brotherhood that define his relationships 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," he disclosed, emphasizing his focus on the collective well-being over individual financial gain.
While Prescott remains grounded, he acknowledges the complexities that come with 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. ... 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 continues to shine both on and off the field in Oxnard, the Cowboys and their loyal fans remain hopeful that a new agreement can be reached to keep their star quarterback in Dallas for years to come.