As the Dallas Cowboys' training camp kicks off in Oxnard, California, all eyes are on quarterback Dak Prescott. Addressing the media recently, Prescott exuded confidence about his standing with the team and his future, both on and off the field.
Position of Strength
As Prescott approaches the end of his four-year, $160 million contract, which elevated him into the upper echelons of NFL quarterback salaries, he remains unfazed by the speculations surrounding his future. With a league-leading 36 touchdown passes in 2023 and a second-best passer rating of 105.9 last season, Prescott’s performance speaks for itself.
“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 remarked. "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 Dynamics
The quarterback landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years, with escalating contracts marking the financial environment of the NFL. Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence now sit atop the market with $275 million deals, while Jordan Love’s recent $220 million deal included a record $75 million signing bonus from Green Bay.
Prescott noted, “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."
The Brotherhood and Responsibility
For Prescott, playing in the NFL is not merely a job; it's a fraternity bound by shared goals and mutual respect. With two older brothers who have ingrained in him the essence of brotherhood, Prescott views his negotiations as opportunities to further solidify these bonds within the team and the larger league ecosystem.
"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 explained. "There are ways to make everything work for both ways. ... Then again, I've never truly cared about the number."
This sentiment extends to his perspective on contracts and salary negotiations, where Prescott balances personal aspirations with a sense of duty to his peers.
"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 shared. "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."
Focus on the Present
Despite the complex intricacies of the business side of football, Prescott’s primary focus remains on the present. Enjoying the camaraderie of training camp and the unique experience of being a Dallas Cowboy, he remains dedicated to his performance and his teammates.
As speculation continues about potential contract renewals and future prospects, Prescott’s approach emphasizes a grounded mindset and unwavering commitment, both cornerstones of his success on the field.