Massive extension puts more pressure on Cowboys QB Dak Prescott

Giving Prescott a mega deal makes sense, as he's coming off the best year of his career. In 17 games last season, he led the league in touchdown passes (36) and finished second in MVP voting behind Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson. 

If the Cowboys didn't extend him before the start of the season, he could've become an unrestricted free agent in 2025. His departure would've resulted in a cap hit that exceeded $40M, via ESPN's Todd Archer.

Signing Prescott to a new deal seems like a solid move for the Cowboys, but it carries some risk.

It may make extending star edge-rusher Micah Parsons — who has two years left on his rookie deal — more difficult. Earlier this offseason, the Cowboys signed WR CeeDee Lamb to a four-year, $136M deal, which could also devour future cap space.

More importantly, Dallas is making a long-term commitment to a player who has yet to prove he can deliver in the postseason. Entering his ninth season with the Cowboys, Prescott is 2-5 in the playoffs and has never made an NFC Championship Game.  

According to CBS Sports' Doug Clawson, no QB has ever won a Super Bowl with their draft team after failing to start a conference championship game through their first eight seasons.  

Prescott, 31, could prove he deserved the deal and help the Cowboys snap a 28-year championship drought. ESPN Football Power Index gives them the sixth-best chance (5.4%) to win Super Bowl LIX. 

However, if he and the Cowboys don't get over the hump, critics may claim he's overpaid. Keep an eye on the three-time Pro Bowler in Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns.