ESPN's Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Dak Prescott's $82 Million Contract as Burden for Cowboys

What's Happening?

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith has publicly criticized Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott's $82 million contract, labeling it a burden for the team. Smith's comments come amid the Cowboys' ongoing contract negotiations with star linebacker Micah Parsons. Smith questioned whether Prescott deserves to be the NFL's highest-paid quarterback, given the team's limited playoff success during his tenure. Prescott's contract, which includes a four-year, $240 million extension with $231 million guaranteed, has been restructured multiple times, creating significant salary cap space. This restructuring, according to Smith, may be hindering the Cowboys' ability to retain other key players.

Why It's Important?

The criticism of Dak Prescott's contract highlights the financial challenges faced by NFL teams in managing player salaries while maintaining competitive rosters. The Cowboys' situation underscores the delicate balance between rewarding star players and ensuring team success. Prescott's contract, one of the richest in NFL history, has implications for the team's ability to negotiate with other players, such as Micah Parsons, who is seeking a substantial new deal. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact the Cowboys' performance in the upcoming season and their long-term strategy.

What's Next?

The Cowboys are under pressure to resolve their contract issues before the season opener against the Eagles. The team's management must navigate the complexities of salary cap constraints and player demands to maintain a competitive roster. The decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the Cowboys' ability to make a deep playoff run and address the criticisms surrounding their financial strategies.