Dak Prescott's latest stance on contract dilemma is concerning amid QB buzz
By Jerry Trotta
The Dallas Cowboys have stated numerous times publicly that they're committed to Dak Prescott. That doesn't mean a Prescott contract extension is guaranteed. Reports once indicated that a deal would get done before free agency so that the Cowboys would have maximum spending flexibility.
Recalling the previous round of negotiations between Prescott and Dallas, though, this was always destined to drag into spring workouts and possibly training camp. The Cowboys typically take care of "their guys," but they seldom do so before the bill comes due.
That history would leave the summer as the most realistic timeline for an agreement. Not only that, but Prescott couldn't be less worried about his contract. He's at OTAs leading by example; commanding the offense and mentoring Trey Lance.
While Prescott gave a typical QB-speak answer about his contract, it should sound alarms in the Cowboys' front office.
Cowboys QB Dak Prescott downplays money amid contract talks
"I don't play for money. Never have never cared for it to be honest with you. Yeah. Would give it up just to play this game. So I allow that to the business people to say what it's worth what they're supposed to give a quarterback of my play. A person of my play, leader of my play. For me, it's about as I said, control what I can control and handle that part and the rest will take care of itself."
Prescott added that his business "will take care of its self." This care-free attitude is commendable and could even hint that Prescott is willing to take less money on his new deal. However, it could mean bad news for the Cowboys regardless given the contract buzz surrounding other franchise QBs.
For starters, the Jaguars are "working tirelessly" to get an extension done with Trevor Lawrence, who's entering his fourth season. Lawrence has endured a rocky start to his NFL career. He boasts a 20-30 record as a starter and his 60 turnovers since he was drafted in 2021 are the most in the league. Lawrence's new deal is expected to be in the $50 million range, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
The same can be said for the Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa after the Lions gave Jared Goff $53 million annually and $170.6 million guaranteed.
While Tagovailoa is 32-19 as a starter, he has a concerning injury history. Additionally, Miami was 1-5 last year against teams that made the playoffs. Tagovailoa was especially underwhelming in late-season losses losses vs the Bills and Ravens that cost the Dolphins the AFC East.
Prescott's patience indicates that Lawrence and Tagovailoa will sign new deals before him. Even if Prescott is willing to take less money, it might not matter. He's expected to become the highest-paid quarterback and if two lesser gunslingers get north of $50 million per year, he'd be well within his rights to set a benchmark of $60 million with the potential to earn even more given all of the leverage he has over the Cowboys.