Dak Prescott faces pressure in 2025 amid contract criticism from Stephen A.
Smith Rips Dallas over Prescott's Contract originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The 2025 NFL season is quickly approaching, and “America’s Team,” the Dallas Cowboys, are once again in the spotlight. Whether it’s owner Jerry Jones, coaching drama or one of the players, football season always brings headlines out of Big D.
This time, veteran quarterback Dak Prescott is at the center of the conversation.
On Tuesday’s edition of "First Take," Stephen A. Smith discussed the Cowboys and Prescott’s contract situation, pointing out that the team has restructured his deal five different times. Smith argued that Prescott is overpaid.
.@stephenasmith believes the Cowboys restructuring Dak Prescott's contract five times shows that he is overpaid 😯
— First Take (@FirstTake) August 12, 2025
"That is a grand total of $82 million ... in cap space for Jerry Jones. That's how you know you are overpaying your QB." pic.twitter.com/QORmjsX6RY
Dak Prescott's Contract Heading into the 2025 Season
The 32-year-old signed a four-year, $240 million contract with the Cowboys, which included an $80 million signing bonus and more than $230 million guaranteed. His average annual salary is $60 million.
Including this season, Prescott has three years left on his deal. His 2025 cap hit is $50.5 million, while his 2026 cap hit will jump to $74 million when he’s 33.
Prescott has a potential out after the 2027 season. If he stays, his 2028 cap hit will rise to $78.3 million. He’s scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in 2029.
Stephen A. Smith's Criticism
Smith didn’t hold back when talking about Prescott, calling him “overpaid” and pointing to his postseason track record.
“He’s only won two playoff games in 10 years,” Smith said. “I don’t blame him, though. I’d take the pay, too.”
Smith also noted that Prescott’s contract has been restructured five times in five years, with the latest move coming on March 5 when $45.75 million of his salary was converted to create $36.6 million in cap space for Dallas.
“That’s a grand total of $82 million in cap space created for Jerry Jones,” Smith said. “That’s how you know you’re overpaying your quarterback.”
Prescott's History in Dallas
The former Mississippi State star was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2016 and won the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award in 2022.
His career stats heading into the 2025 season include:
- 122 regular-season games played
- 66.8% completion rate
- 31,347 passing yards
- 213 touchdowns
- 82 interceptions
- 7 postseason games played
- 64.5% postseason completion rate
- 14 postseason touchdown passes
- 7 postseason interceptions
With new head coach Brian Schottenheimer taking over, it’s a pivotal year for Prescott. The pressure is on to deliver in the postseason and, if nothing else, give Stephen A. Smith fewer reasons to talk.
Related: Dak Prescott Makes Bold Prediction Following Preseason Loss to Rams
Related: Chiefs Coach Andy Reid Bracing for Tough Decision Before NFL Season
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Football
