If Dak Prescott has a Pro Bowl season and takes the Dallas Cowboys to the Super Bowl, chances are he will get a huge contract extension, however, a new report reveals the organization has a major reason to cut or trade him after the season if he disappoints in 2023.
This September brings another season in Dallas filled with grand hopes of bringing an NFL championship to the city for the first time since 1996. And it is understandable why since the team has won 12 games the last two years, they have an elite defense and a very formidable offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott.
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However, there is a massive amount of pressure on the 30-year-old. He has been with the team long enough that the expectations are as high as ever, especially after reaching the playoffs and being eliminated earlier than expected on four different occasions. With one year left on his current contract, there are some who feel this could be a make-or-break season for the two-time Pro Bowler.
There have been rumblings over the last few months that a huge long-term extension could be coming Prescott’s way. Especially if he has a big season in 2023. However, a new report suggests that if he misses a lot of time with more injuries or again leads the league in interceptions — as he did in 2022 — the Dallas Cowboys have a great reason to trade or cut him.
Dak Prescott’s Dallas Cowboys contract for 2024 is not guaranteed
On Thursday, ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano wrote about Prescott’s contract situation and how it needs to be addressed since he has a massive $59.4 million cap hit next season on a contract that will pay him $34 million. However, his deal for next season is not guaranteed and gives the franchise a key route to get out of the deal.
“The Cowboys could cut or trade him prior to paying the March ($5 million) roster bonus and save $34 million on their 2024 cap,” Graziano wrote.
- Dak Prescott stats (2022): 2,860 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, 15 interceptions, 91.1 rating
It will be very interesting to see how things play out if Dallas falls flat again in 2023. Especially after the team gave up a fourth-round pick for former first-round Trey Lance in a trade last month. Some have speculated Lance is the backup plan at QB if the team moves on from Prescott before next season.
That $34 million could be a huge pot of money to use elsewhere. Like on an extension for superstar Micah Parson, and on other offensive weapons if they believe Lance can be just as productive as Prescott is but at half the price.