ESPN analyst gives Cowboys’ Dak Prescott ‘most underappreciated’ label

In some ways, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is getting his due. But he is facing a make-or-break legacy season in 2026. And an ESPN analyst gave Prescott the label of most underappreciated, according to a post on X by First Take.

“Probably the best play-action passer in all of football for long stretches of last season,” Kevin Clark said. “I think he’s unbelievable. I had (former Cowboys head coach) Jason Garrett on my show yesterday. He said Dak Prescott might be one of the most underappreciated players in football.

“I’ll go further. I think he’s the most underappreciated. Because he’s become a punchline. Because of the sins of Jerry Jones’ roster building. And Cowboys fans who always overhype their team.”

Could QB Dak Prescott soar in 2026?

There seems to be a growing sense that he can.

“I just think there’s a floor that’s really high,” Clark said. “And if the defense can get to average. It’s NFC contention. It’s not Rams level. But it’s close.”

Prescott arguably has two top-10 receivers he can choose from on any down. And if the Cowboys hit high gear, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens might both be top five. They’re that good.

And for anyone thinking the Cowboys might be tempted to trade Prescott, forget that. No matter what ESPN throws out there.

“Prescott’s value would be a fascinating discussion in its own right if the Cowboys star ever chose to waive his no-trade clause,” Bill Barnwell wrote. “His four-year, $240 million extension is the most player-friendly contract in the league, and it’s a product of owner Jerry Jones’ mishandling Prescott’s initial run toward free agency in 2019 and 2020.

“I’m not sure other teams see Prescott as that caliber of quarterback, although his consistency on the field would appeal to franchises that haven’t been able to find a steady hand under center.”

Plus, Prescott figures to get a lot of MVP love in 2026.

“I expect Dak Prescott to be in the MVP conversation with an opportunity to win it because they’re so lethal offensively,” Harry Douglas said.