Kirk Cousins and Dak Prescott: The Future of Quarterback Contracts in the NFL
As the NFL offseason begins, all eyes are on the quarterback position. With Kirk Cousins hitting the open market in 2024 and Dak Prescott potentially following suit in 2025, the future of quarterback contracts in the NFL is a hot topic. While Cousins has already found a new home, signing with the Minnesota Vikings, Prescott’s contract situation with the Dallas Cowboys remains uncertain.
Despite expressing confidence in securing a new long-term deal with the Cowboys, Prescott is now on track to play out his current contract in 2024, according to NFL Media. This news comes after team owner Jerry Jones stated that the Cowboys are “locked and loaded” for the upcoming season and not actively pursuing an extension for Prescott.
However, CBS Sports HQ Senior NFL Insider Josina Anderson has reported that the Cowboys do intend to reach a new deal with Prescott and are not planning to let him test free agency in 2025. While no talks are currently imminent, this is a positive sign for Cowboys fans who are hoping to see Prescott remain in Dallas for the long haul.
Prescott himself has expressed confidence in striking a new deal with the Cowboys, stating that it is important for both the team and the salary cap. However, with Jones now suggesting that the team may have to ”do more with less” due to financial obligations, the situation has become more complicated.
It should be noted that Prescott’s current contract includes no-tag and no-trade clauses, meaning that if an extension is not reached or a trade is not approved before the deadline, he will become a free agent after the 2024 season. This adds even more pressure for the Cowboys to secure a new deal with their star quarterback.
Prescott had a standout season in 2023, leading the NFL with 36 touchdown passes and guiding the Cowboys to their third straight playoff appearance. However, the team fell short once again, and Prescott enters the 2024 season looking for just his third playoff victory in his career.
The Future is Uncertain, But the Talent is Undeniable
As the NFL continues to evolve and the salary cap continues to rise, the future of quarterback contracts remains uncertain. But one thing is for sure: both Kirk Cousins and Dak Prescott are top-tier quarterbacks who will continue to demand top-tier contracts.
While Cousins has already found a new home with the Vikings, Prescott’s future with the Cowboys is still up in the air. But one thing is certain: both quarterbacks have proven themselves as leaders on and off the field, and their talent is undeniable. Whether it’s with the Cowboys or another team, Prescott will undoubtedly continue to make a significant impact in the NFL for years to come.
