On the morning of the Dallas Cowboys’ game against the Cleveland Browns on September 8, Dallas made headlines by securing a record-breaking contract extension with quarterback Dak Prescott. The four-year deal, worth up to $240 million with $231 million guaranteed, marks the largest contract in NFL history, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Schefter reported on X: “Hours before Dallas kicked off its season, the Cowboys reached an agreement with QB Dak Prescott on a four-year, $240 million extension that will make him the highest-paid player in NFL history and ensure his future with the team for several more seasons.”
Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz of USA Today highlighted that Prescott’s new deal makes him the first player to earn $60 million per year, surpassing the previous high earners Joe Burrow, Trevor Lawrence, and Jordan Love, who each signed extensions averaging $55 million annually.
With this landmark contract, expectations for Prescott have heightened. ESPN’s Todd Archer commented, “To transition from being a very good quarterback to one of the greatest in Cowboys history, Prescott needs to reach and possibly win a Super Bowl. Entering his ninth season, he has a deeper understanding of the game, himself, and opposing defenses.”
Archer also pointed out that the Cowboys’ legacy is on the line with this new deal and predicted that the team could undergo significant changes after this season.
Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III praised Prescott on X, stating, “Dak Prescott earned his payday and advanced the pay ceiling for all players. This isn’t just about him; it’s about setting a precedent for others. LOVE IT.”
ESPN “Sunday NFL Countdown” host Alex Smith added, “Good for him. Well-deserved. Prescott is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, playing for the most valuable franchise in sports.”
Scott Polacek of Bleacher Report emphasized the immense pressure on Prescott following the contract, noting, “The Cowboys have committed to Prescott as their franchise quarterback, and with this new contract and the spotlight on Dallas, there will be no shortage of pressure for him to elevate the team to the next level.”
Prescott, coming off his most successful season with 4,516 yards, 36 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, also earned an NFL All-Pro Second Team selection, a Pro Bowl nod, and was a runner-up in AP NFL MVP voting.
