Todd Archer of ESPN recently made it clear that Dak Prescott’s job as the starting quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys is not in any immediate danger. This assertion comes amid ongoing discussions about Prescott’s performance, the team’s playoff struggles, and the ever-present pressure that comes with leading one of the most high-profile franchises in the NFL. Archer pointed to the contract extension Prescott signed in September, which runs through 2028 and made him the highest-paid quarterback in the league at the time, as a definitive indicator of the organization’s commitment to him.
The Cowboys have long been a team under the microscope, and Prescott’s tenure has been no exception. Since taking over as the starter in 2016 following Tony Romo’s injury, Prescott has been a polarizing figure. Some critics argue that he hasn’t done enough to elevate the team in the postseason, while supporters highlight his consistency, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure. The reality is that Prescott has been one of the most productive quarterbacks in the league since entering it, with multiple Pro Bowl selections and a reputation for being a durable and reliable presence under center.
The contract extension itself speaks volumes about how the Cowboys view Prescott. Making him the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, even if only temporarily before other deals reset the market, is not something a team does lightly. It’s a statement of belief in his ability to lead the franchise to a championship. The financial commitment is enormous, and the Cowboys wouldn’t have made it if they had any serious doubts about Prescott’s long-term viability as their starter.
That said, the NFL is a results-driven business, and even the most secure players can find themselves under scrutiny if expectations aren’t met. The Cowboys have not advanced past the divisional round of the playoffs since Prescott took over, and that’s a sticking point for a fanbase that expects Super Bowl contention every year. The pressure is always on in Dallas, and while Prescott’s job isn’t in jeopardy now, another early playoff exit could shift the conversation.
However, it’s important to consider the context of Prescott’s career. He’s played under multiple offensive coordinators, dealt with significant injuries—including a gruesome ankle fracture in 2020—and still managed to put up impressive numbers. His resilience and ability to adapt have been key factors in his success. Last season, despite some inconsistencies, he led the Cowboys to another playoff berth and showed flashes of brilliance, reminding everyone why the organization was willing to invest so heavily in him.
Another factor working in Prescott’s favor is the lack of a viable alternative on the roster. The Cowboys have not drafted or acquired a quarterback who could realistically push Prescott for the starting job. Cooper Rush, who filled in admirably during Prescott’s absence in 2022, is a solid backup but not a long-term threat to the starting role. The team’s front office has made it clear that they see Prescott as their guy, and unless something drastic changes, that isn’t likely to shift anytime soon.
The broader NFL landscape also plays a role in Prescott’s job security. Quarterback talent is at a premium, and finding a franchise-caliber player is incredibly difficult. Teams like the Denver Broncos, New York Jets, and Atlanta Falcons have spent years searching for stability at the position, cycling through veterans and draft picks with mixed results. The Cowboys, by contrast, have a proven commodity in Prescott, and moving on from him would create more questions than answers.
Of course, none of this means Prescott is immune to criticism. The Cowboys’ offense has had moments where it has looked stagnant, and Prescott has had games where he’s struggled with accuracy or decision-making. But even the best quarterbacks have off nights, and what separates the elite from the rest is their ability to bounce back. Prescott has shown that resilience time and again, which is why the Cowboys’ faith in him remains unshaken.
Looking ahead, the key for Prescott and the Cowboys will be taking the next step in the playoffs. Regular-season success is great, but in Dallas, the standard is championships. Prescott knows that as well as anyone, and his leadership will be crucial in getting the team over the hump. The front office has continued to build around him, adding weapons like CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks while maintaining a strong offensive line. The pieces are in place for Prescott to succeed—now it’s about execution when it matters most.
Todd Archer’s assessment that Prescott’s job isn’t under threat is a reflection of the reality within the organization. The Cowboys have bet big on Prescott, and they’re not going to pivot unless absolutely necessary. While outside noise will always exist, especially in a market as intense as Dallas, the internal belief in Prescott remains strong.
Ultimately, the NFL is a league where circumstances can change rapidly, but for now, Dak Prescott is the undisputed leader of the Dallas Cowboys. His contract, his track record, and the team’s commitment to him all point to a future where he remains under center for years to come. The pressure to deliver a championship will always be there, but that comes with the territory of being the quarterback in Dallas. If anyone is built to handle it, it’s Prescott.
