- NFL. Despite Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's best efforts to square their schedules, they are missing important moments in their lives
- NFL. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt could anger players and former legends with controversial decision
In the NFL, no position is more scrutinized-or more fragile-than quarterback. Stability under center can fuel deep playoff runs, but when production dips and expectations go unmet, even seasoned veterans find themselves on the chopping block.
That's the situation Dak Prescott could face in 2025, as the Dallas Cowboys weigh his future amid rising questions about his performance and durability.
Prescott has been the face of the franchise since 2016, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and a reputation for consistency and leadership.
But as he enters his age-32 season with a $50 million cap hit looming, the margin for error is shrinking rapidly.
A Step Back in 2024 Raises Red Flags
Just two seasons ago, Prescott was in MVP contention, completing nearly 70 percent of his es and throwing for over 4,500 yards with 36 touchdowns.
But his form took a serious dip in 2024. He managed just 11 touchdown es against eight interceptions across eight starts before a hamstring injury ended his campaign prematurely.
While Prescott recently declared he's healthy and game-ready, it's unclear whether the injury - or age - is beginning to affect his mobility and sharpness, two qualities that once defined his play.
The Cowboys' decision to bring in Joe Milton III only adds fuel to the fire. Milton, a strong-armed and athletic quarterback acquired via trade from New England, has impressed in offseason workouts.
At 25, he represents both potential upside and a much cheaper option should Dallas consider a transition.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer, now taking the reins after serving as offensive coordinator, will be under pressure to get immediate results.
If Prescott stumbles early, the Cowboys could pivot quickly, especially with a ready-made backup generating buzz.
Financial Pressure Meets On-Field Uncertainty
Prescott's four-year, $240 million extension signed last September secured his financial future-but also raised expectations.
The Cowboys structured the deal with future outs, but cutting ties early would still involve a steep dead cap hit. It's not unthinkable, though.
Just look at Denver, who opted to absorb the financial fallout to part ways with Russell Wilson when it was clear the fit no longer worked.
And the Cowboys' window is narrow.
With a talented but aging roster and postseason disappointments piling up, the organization can't afford another middling season under center.
Other QBs Facing Pressure in 2025
Prescott isn't the only quarterback whose job security is in question this season. Around the league, several other signal-callers could be headed for the bench if things don't improve:
- Sam Darnold (Seahawks): Expected to start in Seattle, but has yet to prove he can consistently lead a winning team.
- Aaron Rodgers (Steelers): Age and injury concerns loom as he s a new franchise under a bright spotlight.
- Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins): Health questions and contract uncertainty could push Miami to explore other options.
- Russell Wilson (Giants): A last-chance season in New York after a turbulent stint in Denver.
A Crossroads Season for Dallas and Prescott
Dak Prescott's future with the Cowboys could hinge on how he performs in the first half of the 2025 season.
If he can rediscover his 2023 form and stay healthy, he may yet extend his run in Dallas. But if the struggles continue, Joe Milton III might not just be a backup-he could be the next man up.
For now, Prescott remains QB1. But the pressure is building, and the Cowboys' patience isn't infinite.