Cowboys rumors: ‘Looks like’ Dak Prescott will test NFL FA in contract talks | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors

The Dallas Cowboys were able to reach an agreement on a long-term contract with quarterback CeeDee Lamb during the offseason, but reportedly will not be able to do the same with quarterback Dak Prescott.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported Thursday that a source “with direct knowledge of the situation” said that “at this point, it looks like free agency” for the quarterback, who is entering the final year of his contract.

Fowler called the negotiations “troublesome” and added that Dallas “will have to come to terms” with the “inevitability” that Prescott will be the league’s highest-paid quarterback when he signs his next contract.

There is still time for both sides to reach an agreement before the start of the season, as the Cowboys will take the field for the first time on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.

ESPN’s Dan Graziano said he “wouldn’t be surprised” if a deal was reached before the season, adding that “I’ve been getting more optimistic responses in the last few days than at any other point in the last calendar year.”

It would eliminate much of the long-term uncertainty that has characterized Cowboys training camp.

While Lamb has signed a deal, head coach Mike McCarthy is also entering the final year of his contract. And star pass rusher Micah Parsons is signed for just one season beyond 2024 and is sure to be looking at a massive contract given his overall production.

However, Prescott is now in the spotlight as his decision will ultimately determine the path the Cowboys take in the years to come.

There’s cause for concern about the lack of playoff success for a quarterback who’s 2-5 in the postseason and has never advanced past the second round. Still, Prescott led the league with 36 touchdown passes last season and is a near certainty to throw for more than 4,000 yards if he stays healthy.

The Cowboys have had three consecutive 12-5 seasons, a level of consistency most NFL teams would expect.

In the final days before the 2024 season begins in Dallas, the NFL’s eyes will be on Prescott. If he doesn’t sign an extension, he could be the centerpiece of another free agency this offseason.