The Dallas Cowboys' training camp is in full swing in Oxnard, California, and all eyes are on quarterback Dak Prescott. The seasoned leader recently took to the podium to discuss a range of topics, from his contract situation to his commitment to the team.
Dak's Confidence in Contracts
Prescott spoke candidly about his current contract and future prospects. "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," he remarked. He emphasized living in the moment, adding, "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 remarks come as he nears the end of his four-year, $160 million contract. Last season, he demonstrated why he's one of the top quarterbacks in the league, leading the NFL with 36 touchdown passes and achieving a passer rating of 105.9, the second-best in the league.
The Contract Landscape
The landscape for quarterback contracts has significantly shifted in recent times, with notable deals setting new benchmarks. Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence both inked contracts worth $275 million, while Jordan Love secured a $220 million deal with Green Bay, which included a historic $75 million signing bonus, the biggest in NFL history.
A Team-First Mentality
Despite the high stakes and financial implications, Prescott maintains a team-first mentality. "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," he stated. He trusts his agents and the Cowboys' front office to handle the contractual intricacies. "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’s commitment to his team and the NFL fraternity is evident. "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 sides," Prescott noted. He pointed to Love's landmark signing bonus as an example of how financial negotiations can set new standards while indicating, "Then again, I've never truly cared about the number."
Obligations and Priorities
As Prescott continues to navigate his career and contract talks, he keeps a broader perspective in mind. "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," he explained. He recognizes his obligations not only to the NFL and his teammates but also to other quarterbacks in the league. "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," Prescott added.
As the Cowboys' training camp progresses, Prescott's focus remains on the present and maximizing his impact on the team. His poised approach to contract negotiations and deep connection with his teammates set a strong tone for the season ahead.