Cowboys’ Options on Prescott Complicated by Contract and Losing Season

On November 2, former NFL quarterback Chris Simms said there had been discussion in Dallas about whether the Cowboys might move on from Dak Prescott after this season. He suggested Prescott’s place as the team’s quarterback in 2027 could depend on whether the team turns its season around, but offered no further detail about the chatter.

The comments followed Dallas’ 33-30 overtime defeat to the Arizona Cardinals, which left the Cowboys 3-5. Arizona erased a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit, matching the biggest blown lead in Cowboys franchise history. Dallas has not put together consecutive wins under coach Brian Schottenheimer, and questions about his job security have surfaced this season.

Prescott has started all eight games, throwing for 2,046 yards, 14 touchdowns and five interceptions. Dallas’ defense has struggled, while the offense has also sputtered during three losses in the team’s recent four-game stretch. Prescott pushed back against the idea that Schottenheimer alone should bear responsibility, saying fault belongs across the team and organization.

Dallas’ financial commitments make a departure difficult. Prescott’s 2027 cap hit is projected at $76 million; a release could leave the team with $131 million in dead cap before June 1 or $76 million after that date. A trade would mean $86 million or $31 million in dead cap, respectively, with additional dead money extending through 2030. Restructuring or extending his contract could be alternatives, while replacing him would also present financial and football challenges.

Owner and general manager Jerry Jones said many people had let Schottenheimer down, while defending the coach from bearing all the criticism. Prescott, 33, has played 10 seasons in Dallas; the Cowboys have reached the playoffs five times in that span, with two playoff wins and no appearance beyond the divisional round.