Dak Prescott was in a walking boot in the summer, sparking fears about his availability for the 2024 NFL season. Although he reassured fans that it was just a precaution, Prescott missed practices last week and didn’t play in the Dallas Cowboys‘ preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Cowboys will face off against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium tonight with all eyes on Prescott’s status. Dallas head coach Mike McCarthy prefers playing it safe, as they mostly rest their starters in preseason games.
With concerns swirling around Prescott and his ankle problems, the question on everyone’s mind is clear: Is Dak Prescott playing tonight?
Will Dak Prescott Take Snaps Against the Las Vegas Raiders?
Prescott probably won’t take the field on Saturday against the Raiders. The star QB has been battling ankle soreness, which kept him out of a few practices last week. However, Prescott returned to practice on Tuesday, indicating that he’s on the mend.
McCarthy has not confirmed Prescott’s status for the Raiders game, but history suggests that he likely won’t play. Prescott hasn’t appeared in a preseason game since 2019. In Prescott’s absence, Trey Lance is expected to lead the offense.
Lance had a rough outing in the Cowboys’ preseason opener against the Rams. He completed 25 of 41 passes for 188 yards with no touchdowns. The Cowboys’ offense struggled under his command, failing to score a touchdown in eight possessions.
As the Cowboys prepare for the regular season opener on Sept. 8 against the Cleveland Browns, Prescott’s health remains the top priority. While it’s uncertain if he’ll see any preseason action, fans can rest easy knowing that, as of yet, there’s no risk of him missing the regular season opener.
Dak Prescott, Cowboys Embroiled in Contract Talks
The Cowboys QB is deep in contract talks with team management, and he’s optimistic about completing a deal. Prescott is entering the final season of his $160 million contract, which he signed four years ago. He expressed confidence in the ongoing negotiations.
“Good conversations are going on, I will say that. Call it negotiations, whatever, conversations. A lot of good things are going on there, so a lot of confidence,” Prescott said, hinting that both sides are progressing toward a deal.
Prescott has been with the Cowboys for eight years. He first stepped onto the field for the team in the 2016 season opener after starting quarterback Tony Romo got injured. The 31-year-old is not overly concerned about when the deal gets finalized.
“I’m not putting that much thought into hoping it gets done now …” Prescott said. “I just know conversations are on the right way.”
His current Dallas contract pays him $40 million annually, which is below the market value for top-tier quarterbacks. According to Spotrac, Prescott’s market value is estimated at $55.1 million annually.
Given his stats from last season — 4,516 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and just nine interceptions — it’s no surprise Prescott is looking for a raise.