Why NFL Faith in Dak Prescott Persists Despite Top Teams With Losing Records

The NFL world buzzes every season about contract extensions and the futures of star quarterbacks. One such case that continues to stir the pot is the Dallas Cowboys and their decision to sign Dak Prescott to a contract extension. Some are baffled as to why the Cowboys are making a big fuss over this choice, especially since four of the top five teams in terms of quarterback salaries are among the league's worst performers.

But why do these teams—including the Cowboys—continue to trust their quarterbacks?

Habits, Work Ethic, and Team Dynamics

When analyzing the QBs of these teams, certain patterns emerge that speak to their value. Leland Lundahl, a well-known analyst on Quora, among others, argues that it comes down to a complex interplay of habits, work ethic, and intangible qualities.

Habits and Work Ethic: Dak Prescott is often scrutinized for his work ethic and habits. Unlike some top-tier quarterbacks who are synonymous with intense preparation and dedication, Prescott's efforts in these areas have sometimes been questioned. Other successful quarterbacks have been known for their meticulous routines and strict regimen, which they believe is crucial for peak performance. Prescott’s approach is seen as relying more on his playmakers to take the strain off his own work ethic. While this can effectively spread the load, it doesn't necessarily guarantee sustained success.

Why Prescott’s Success Remains Uncertain

Despite his efforts, Dak Prescott is considered an average quarterback at best. This is a key factor in why his team's success seems inconsistent. Throughout his career, Prescott has not entirely relied on his own strength as a leader or play-caller to bring his team to greatness. Instead, his performances often hinge on the skills and contributions of those around him. This dynamic, while not unheard of, is less common among the league’s elite. Thus, when those playing around him struggle, Prescott's value to the team becomes less evident.

Top Five Paid Quarterbacks with Losing Records

It's worth noting that four of the top five paid quarterbacks are among the league's worst performers. This list includes:

Deshaun Watson (Houston Texans) Daniel Jones (New York Giants) Robert Griffin III (Jacksonville Jaguars) Sam Darnold (New York Jets)

These quarterbacks, along with Dak Prescott, have contributed their salaries to their teams' payrolls but have not always provided the level of performance expected of a top-tier player. Their teams have suffered from losing records, which raises questions about the financial and strategic value they bring to their franchises.

Key Takeaways

While Dak Prescott has demonstrated his value in certain matchups and during select seasons, his reliance on playmakers and his average quarterbacking skills make him less of a guarantor of long-term success. The interest in continuing to invest in Prescott is partly due to:

The belief in his potential to improve further The intangible qualities that he brings to the team, such as leadership and chemistry Strategic thinking about the future of the franchise and roster management

However, the current state of the league shows that betting on such strategies comes with inherent risks, especially when compared to other market leaders who have embraced tier-one talent.

Conclusion

The NFL landscape is complex, and decisions like signing Dak Prescott to an extension are multifaceted. While there are questions about his current performance and the long-term viability of his contract, the support for Prescott stems from a blend of hope, intangibles, and strategic foresight. Fans and analysts will continue to scrutinize these decisions, especially with the league’s evolving landscape and the financial implications of these choices for the future.