The Dallas Cowboys' training camp is currently in full swing in Oxnard, California, with all eyes on quarterback Dak Prescott as he communicates his thoughts and aspirations for the future.
Prescott is not just focused on the immediate tasks but is already contemplating his long-term career trajectory. "You know, I'm going to say it: I want to be here," he said. "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. ... Be where your feet are, make the most of it."
Indeed, Prescott’s current focus is firmly grounded in the present. He showed astounding leadership last season, leading the NFL with 36 touchdown passes and securing the second-best passer rating in the league at 105.9. Despite nearing the end of his four-year, $160 million contract, the quarterback insists he isn’t overly concerned about contract negotiations right now.
Confidence in Contracts
"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," Prescott noted. "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."
In light of recent large-scale contracts signed by other quarterbacks, including Joe Burrow's and Trevor Lawrence's staggering $275 million deals, Prescott's approach remains unshaken. Jordan Love's groundbreaking $220 million contract and his $75 million signing bonus, the largest in NFL history, exemplifies the escalating financial commitments teams are making to secure their quarterbacks.
However, Prescott maintains a balanced perspective about money and the NFL's fraternity. "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," he shared.
Focus on Team
Prescott’s dedication to the Cowboys and his teammates is evident. "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 explained. His grounding in family values and the collective success of the team underpin his philosophy.
While financial discussions are a reality for anyone in Prescott's position, he expresses a clear deference to his representation. "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 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."
Prescott's ability to remain focused and unperturbed in the face of financial speculations speaks volumes about his character and professionalism. As training camp progresses in Oxnard, both Prescott’s performance and his candid reflections continue to reinforce his status as a pivotal figure for the Dallas Cowboys, both on and off the field.