Dak Prescott changes tone when talking about Tom Brady-esque goal, and there's a specific reason why Cowboys QB could achieve it

Dak Prescott is still chasing his first-ever Super Bowl ring in Year 10 of his NFL career. His chances of matching Tom Brady's February success are non-existent. There is, however, one Brady-esque achievement he could pursue. Playing beyond 40 years old at a high level.

In the past, Prescott—who is playing perhaps his best NFL season yet—suggested he didn't know if he could play that long. Losing athleticism, he believed, would make it harder to play at that age with his mobile style. It was different from Brady's in-pocket mastery.

But now, Prescott—a father of two and 32 years old—has changed his tone when discussing the possibility of playing well down the road. And there's reason to believe he could do it.

Dak Prescott says 'forties would be a good number' for his career

Earlier in the week, Prescott was asked if his perspective on playing into his forties had changed. His answer suggests it has.

“Forties would be a good number," Prescott told reporters. "Obviously, I’ve been through some injuries and played very physical in college. If I can get to 40 playing at the standard that I want, that’d be awesome. But to answer your question, yeah, [my perspective has] definitely changed. I can see it more realistically now."

Prescott's mindset change shouldn't surprise fans. If there's one thing we've learned from football coaches and players at every level is that the sport is addicting. Closing the door is almost always a harder choice than playing. For the Cowboys quarterback, it's about the fun and peace the game gives him.

"I think as much as anything, just the fun and the peace that this game still gives me 10 years in — it’s going to be hard, and you can’t supplement it," Prescott added. "So as long as I can do this at a level that I’m proud and happy with, I’ll keep trying.”

Prescott's quarterback play suggests he could do the job deep into his forties

Prescott isn't the quarterback he was when he entered the picture in 2016. The speed and agility that made him a legit dual-threat has faded. In its place, however, has emerged a deep understanding of managing the offense at the line of scrimmage and a fearless pocket presence. When needed, Prescott can get rid of the football to counter pressure on his face with a cold demeanor.

This season, Prescott has the highest big-time throw percentage in the NFL when under pressure, largely thanks to his ability to keep his eyes downfield and step up into the pocket. That is also reflected by the fact that he has avoided sacks when under pressure at the third-best rate in the NFL, per PFF.

All of those numbers have been possible despite him having to play two games without CeeDee Lamb and the Cowboys offense being forced to field four different starting offensive lines five weeks into the season.

If Prescott keeps this going, this will undoubtedly end up as one of the best seasons of his career. Considering 2023 is his best one yet, this feels like his prime. The biggest thing will be staying healthy. If he does that, I wouldn't be surprised if Prescott's career is only halfway through.

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