The multi-year standoff between the Dallas Cowboys and quarterback Dak Prescott has been one of the most fascinating storylines over the past two years. The sides have not been able to agree to a contract, but that could be changing in the coming days. According to rumors originating from ESPN’s Todd Archer, the Cowboys hope to have a long-term deal in place with Dak Prescott prior to March 9th.
NFL Rumors: Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys Hope to Reach Agreement Before March 9th
March 9th is a significant date on the NFL offseason calendar. February 23rd marks the first day that teams can use the franchise tag to protect one of their players from hitting the open market. Said window is open until March 9th, meaning that the Cowboys clearly want to avoid using the tag if at all possible. However, all reports suggest that Dallas will use the franchise tag for the second consecutive year if the two sides cannot reach a long-term agreement.
Prescott missed the majority of the 2020 season with an ankle injury, but was playing like one of the best quarterbacks in the league prior to the setback. In just over four games, Prescott completed 68% of his passes for 1,856 yards, nine touchdowns, and four interceptions. For good measure, Prescott also added 93 rushing yards and three touchdowns along with a 11-yard receiving touchdown.
Prescott initially entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. Selected by the Dallas Cowboys, Prescott surprisingly became the Week 1 starter following a back injury to Tony Romo. The rookie completed 67.8% of his passes for 3,667 yards, 23 touchdowns, and four interceptions while guiding the Cowboys to a 13-3 record. Following an offseason where fellow 2016 quarterback draftees Carson Wentz and Jared Goff changed uniforms, Prescott should remain a Cowboy for a very, very long time.