Jason Garrett had a strong message for those criticizing Dak Prescott, making it clear he isn’t here for the negativity surrounding his former quarterback.
Speaking on NBC’s “Football Night in America” ahead of the Week 1 matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Detroit Lions, Garrett didn’t hold back in defending Prescott. As a former head coach of the Dallas Cowboys and now an NBC analyst, Garrett has a unique perspective on Prescott’s career, and he was quick to silence those who continue to question the quarterback’s abilities.
“He just plays the game at a high level,” Garrett declared passionately. “I hear these clowns on TV saying, ‘He’s overrated. He’s not in the top 10.’ Watch the game! He’s an incredible football player, a great leader for that team.”
Garrett’s defense of Prescott came on the same day that Prescott signed a record-setting 4-year, $240 million contract extension with the Cowboys, making him one of the highest-paid players in NFL history. The significant contract is a testament to how much the Cowboys value Prescott as their franchise quarterback, despite the criticism from pundits and analysts.
Prescott didn’t just sign his massive deal that day—he backed it up on the field. Later that evening, Prescott led the Cowboys to a commanding 33-17 victory over the Cleveland Browns. While it wasn’t a career-defining performance, Prescott’s 19 completions on 32 attempts for 179 yards and a touchdown were enough to guide the team to victory. Meanwhile, the Cowboys’ defense took center stage, racking up 6 sacks and 2 interceptions, showcasing the team’s all-around dominance.
Garrett, who coached the Cowboys from 2010 to 2019, knows Prescott well, having been the coach who helped develop him during his first four seasons as a starter. While Garrett may have some bias as his former coach, his defense of Prescott is grounded in his firsthand knowledge of the quarterback’s talent, leadership, and work ethic.
After all, Dallas wouldn’t have committed to Prescott with such a substantial contract if they didn’t believe in his abilities as their long-term leader.
In a league where quarterbacks are scrutinized and evaluated relentlessly, Garrett’s message was clear: the criticism of Prescott is misplaced, and those doubting his skill need to take a closer look at what he brings to the field.