The Dallas Cowboys are in a rough patch, reeling from three straight losses and facing a challenging showdown against the division-leading Philadelphia Eagles. With starting quarterback Dak Prescott sidelined due to a hamstring injury, the Cowboys are left to regroup without their offensive leader for at least the next four games. Although Prescott’s season has had its challenges, some in the media have chosen to label him a “quitter” for missing games due to injury—a take that many, including Cowboys fans, find inflammatory and unfair.
Former NFL players Emmanuel Acho, LeSean McCoy, James Jones, and Chase Daniel recently suggested on FOX Sports 1’s The Facility that Prescott “quit on his team” after sustaining the hamstring injury in last week’s loss to Atlanta. The accusation drew immediate backlash, with former Cowboys safety Barry Church condemning it as “out of pocket” and “nonsense.”
In defense of Prescott, DallasCowboys.com reporter Patrik Walker shared what he witnessed firsthand following the Atlanta game. “I watched as Dak Prescott could barely get up the stairs and onto (and then off of) the charter flight because of the injury,” he posted on X, adding that Prescott even attempted to return to the game before seeking a second medical opinion.
“Dak quit on his team.”@89JonesNTAF reacts to Dak Prescott’s hamstring injury putting him on IR pic.twitter.com/4xUMmnbkka
— The Facility (@TheFacilityFS1) November 5, 2024
These comments speak to the misconception that Prescott’s injury is anything less than genuine. Prescott may be enduring one of his more challenging seasons, with turnovers and setbacks marking his early performance. Yet, to imply he would sideline himself by choice, especially when the Cowboys need him most, is to overlook the grit he’s shown throughout his career.
Injuries are part of the NFL reality, but being labeled a “quitter” for taking the necessary time to heal is an unwarranted critique, especially for a player who has been nothing but dedicated. As Walker emphasized, “Tell me more about what you saw—from home.”
For Cowboys fans and the franchise alike, the Prescott narrative shouldn’t be reduced to hot takes. It’s a tough season, but Prescott’s character and commitment remain unquestionable.
