The Dallas Cowboys' training camp in Oxnard, California, has officially kicked off, and all eyes are on quarterback Dak Prescott as he prepares for another pivotal season. Prescott’s media session revealed not only his confidence in his current and future contracts but also his unwavering dedication to his team.
Confidence Amid Contract Talks
The NFL's landscape for quarterback contracts has been evolving rapidly. Notably, Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence securing deals worth $275 million, while Jordan Love signed a $220 million contract, including a record-setting $75 million signing bonus from Green Bay. As Prescott nears the end of his four-year, $160 million contract, he remains optimistic about his situation.
Despite the escalating figures around him, Prescott maintains a level-headed approach. "I'm not worried about the talk. I've got a great team, and I'm confident in getting something done," he stated. "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."
Eyes on the Prize
Last season, Prescott's performance was nothing short of remarkable. Leading the NFL with 36 touchdown passes and boasting a passer rating of 105.9, the second-best in the league, Prescott demonstrated his elite status among quarterbacks. His focus now is to maintain and build upon that excellence.
"You know, I'm going to say it: I want to be here," Prescott affirmed. "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's not something to fear. That may be a reality for me one day. ... Be where your feet are, make the most of it. Be confident in yourself, make the team better."
A Brotherhood Beyond Contracts
Prescott's understanding of the NFL extends beyond the numbers and contracts. Having grown up with two older brothers, he appreciates the sense of brotherhood within the team and the league. This camaraderie is evident in his approach to negotiations and his role within the team.
"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," Prescott said, referring to Love's historic signing bonus. "That's why I said that. Then again, I've never truly cared about the number."
Trust in the Process
As Prescott eyes his potential future with the Cowboys, he places significant trust in his representation and the team’s front office. He acknowledges the complexities and responsibilities that come with his position, not just to himself but to other quarterbacks and players in the league.
"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 explained. "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 the Cowboys continue their preparations in Oxnard, Prescott remains focused on his immediate goals and the love he has for his team and the game. "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," he reflected.
With his proven track record and steadfast approach, Prescott's outlook for the upcoming season centers around commitment, performance, and an enduring sense of brotherhood. While the future holds many uncertainties, his present dedication to the Dallas Cowboys remains uncompromised.