“Dak Prescott Is Like a 17 in Blackjack”: How Jerry Jones Views Cowboys QB, Per NFL Analyst

How much is Dak Prescott worth to the Cowboys? That’s the million-dollar question hanging over the heads of the Dallas team and owner Jerry Jones. While Jones openly declared the team “all in” for this season, his comments about QB Prescott reflect an internal conflict. Despite leading the Cowboys to a third consecutive 12-win season last year, Prescott’s future with the team is uncertain. Referring to salary caps and free agency, Jones announced, “We all know that every team in this league has limitations.” 

Here’s where things get interesting. NFL analyst Tyler Dunne said Prescott may have had “one of the best years he’s ever had, but he can play better.” However, he dropped an odd analogy: “My co-host, who’s worked in NFL front offices, Jim Monos, likens Dak Prescott to like a 17 in blackjack. Like, it’s good. But you are going to need a little help.”

A 17 in blackjack is strong but not unbeatable. It’s like you might win some games with it, but a good dealer will probably require another card. This implies the Cowboys’ Jones’ sentiment: Prescott is a good QB, but he may not be good enough to single-handedly carry Dallas to a Super Bowl victory, per Tyler Dunne. 

This again puts pressure on the roster. Key free agents like Stephon Gilmore and Tony Pollard are on the cut list, while Tyron Smith and CeeDee Lamb’s team contract extensions seem in limbo. Can the Cowboys build a strong team around Prescott, or will he be left holding a good-but-not-great hand?

Dak Prescott contract expires in 2025. Dallas’ owner, Jones, wants to negotiate a new deal, but both parties are under pressure. Prescott and Dallas are about to face a high-stakes bet this season, and analyst Tyler Dunne’s blackjack analogy pretty much explains it. But what happens if the blackjack hand folds?

Prescott’s future on gamble without Cowboys contract extension

The Cowboys haven’t extended their top QB, Dak Prescott’s, a contract extension. Prescott, who had a record year with 36 touchdown passes, will be a sought-after commodity in free agency if negotiations with the Cowboys fail. 

The 30-year-old QB may be a tempting prospect for other NFL teams. The Seahawks, currently sporting rookie Sam Howell (behind center) and Geno Smith, might show an interest in Prescott’s proven talent. Russell Wilson’s Steelers, desperate for a long-term QB after a carousel, may also be interested. 

In addition, the Dolphins, Jets, Raiders, and Giants—all with QB issues—might enter the Dak sweepstakes next year. For now, the time’s ticking—and the Cowboys must decide whether to keep their star QB or bid him farewell after the season.