Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott spoke to the media for the first time since training camp started. He discussed one aspect of the offseason work he put in with his teammates and another factor that’s adding urgency for him to win.
Dak Prescott Building Continuity in the Offseason
Prescott paid for him and 17 of his teammates to attend a pre-camp retreat in Atlanta with O2X, saying that all they had to pay for was their airfare, and he took care of the rest.
He said that this trip helped the guys use accountability, gain trust, and learn how to lean back on that when adversity comes.
Prescott said that to bring that many guys on the trip to be locked in and contribute can help them all season long. The rookies are no different.
“It’s always one of those guys you’re going to need late in the year to make a play. You’re going to need one of those guys moved up from the practice squad. You’re going to need one of those guys to come in on third down and make that catch,” said Prescott about the importance of younger players attending this event to know their roles and understand that they are an essential part of the team’s success.
Offensive Playmakers Prescott Mentioned by Name
Prescott talked about his chemistry with Brandin Cooks, calling him a “true pro” and a guy whose preparation and approach show he has played with some of the best quarterbacks and coaches.
“He’s vital to our team’s success,” said Prescott.
Prescott talked about Jalen Tolbert, saying he has all the talent and capabilities. He also touched on how football is a game of confidence, and that’s what Tolbert struggled with last season.
“He’s taken a huge step mentally, and I think that’s going to jump off the tape or jump off when you watch him on the field,” said Prescott.
Prescott mentioned that during Day 2 of training camp, Tolbert asked him to give him another chance after a pass intended for the second-year WR was picked off.
Another guy Prescott spoke highly of was wide receiver Dennis Houston.
“Dennis is a guy that I’ve trusted since Day 1. There’s a reason he was out there starting Week 1 of last year,” said Prescott.
Houston’s approach to being purposeful sticks out to Prescott, saying that he’s a guy the team can “lean on” when needed.
Prescott also said that KaVontae Turpin can play a big part in the offense.
“That’s a good problem to have when we got a lot of guys that you trust. A lot of guys that you can feel comfortable that will go out there and make plays,” said Prescott.
By the way, when he was asked about his thought on paying All-Pro guard Zack Martin, his message was short and sweet: “Pay the man.”
Prescott Talks His 30th Birthday, the Urgency It Brings, and Cowboys Defense
Prescott will turn 30 on Saturday, making him one of the four guys on the Cowboys’ offense in their 30s.
“It goes by fast,” said Prescott, adding that it all hit him when he took the offseason trip to Atlanta with his receivers.
Prescott is the last of his 2016 rookie class to be on the team, saying it adds urgency to win.
“I know what I want to do and what I want to accomplish. I know what this team wants, and it’s about that now,” said Prescott.
As for the defense, Prescott had no issue sharing praise, saying, “Just in these two days, I’ve felt it.”
Prescott said it all starts with their communication, and they feel confident in the calls they’re getting from Dan Quinn.
He also said that they are a fast defense, and it’s “iron sharpening iron” to go against them in practice.