Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott was ranked 10th in ESPN’s Top 10 quarterbacks list for the upcoming season, despite a standout year that saw him finish as the runner-up for MVP. Compiled by votes from league executives, coaches, and scouts, the rankings reflect a range of criteria – but has the Cowboys’ franchise quarterback been unfairly underrated?
Statistical Standout, Limited Recognition
Prescott posted impressive numbers last season, with 4,516 passing yards, bested by only Tua Tagovailoa and Jared Goff in total yardage. His nine interceptions were among the fewest of any starting quarterback on the list, with only rookies like C.J. Stroud and veterans like Lamar Jackson throwing fewer. Prescott completed 69.5% of his passes and led the league in total completions, a testament to his efficiency and consistency. His 36 touchdown passes also placed him among the top-scoring quarterbacks in the NFL.
Head-to-Head Performances: More Wins Than Losses
Critics often cite Prescott’s record against top-tier quarterbacks, arguing he struggles under the bright lights. However, Prescott bested four teams with top-10 quarterbacks last season: the Jets, Chargers, Rams, and Lions. In contrast, of the five losses, only one came against a quarterback who also made ESPN’s top-10 list. Prescott’s regular-season performances suggest he belongs higher in the rankings, as he’s proven himself capable against some of the league’s best.
Playoff Pressure: An Area for Growth
Prescott’s playoff record is often cited as a reason for his low ranking. He posted a 68.3% completion rate in the postseason, slightly lower than his regular-season numbers but still competitive. However, with only three touchdowns and two interceptions, his struggles in high-stakes games have limited his postseason success. While his numbers indicate room for improvement under pressure, they aren’t out of line with some higher-ranked players.
Rating Factors: Historical Performance Over Recent Form
ESPN’s rankings weigh heavily on multi-year performances, which explains the inclusion of quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Joe Burrow, who battled injuries last season but have elite resumes. This system allows for the ranking of players with proven consistency over recent breakout stars such as Jordan Love or Brock Purdy, who performed well last season but lack long-term records. Prescott’s ranking at 10th may reflect a blend of present play and career-long evaluation rather than strictly recent performance.
The Rankings Don’t Predict Success
These preseason rankings often differ significantly from reality as the season progresses. When a quarterback like Prescott – who was an MVP runner-up – is ranked at 10th, it raises questions about the relevance of past-season bias. With preseason weeks away, Prescott and the Cowboys have the chance to validate or overturn these rankings, aiming to demonstrate that the 10th spot may be a conservative placement for a player of his caliber.
