Dak Prescott, the Dallas Cowboys quarterback, has once again become a subject of intense discussion following his placement at No. 79 on the latest NFL Top 100 players list released by the NFL Network. Known for his resilience and leadership since taking over from Tony Romo in 2016, Prescott’s ranking has sparked mixed reactions among fans and analysts as the new NFL season approaches.
Despite dealing with injuries and inconsistent performances in crucial moments, Prescott remains a respected figure within the league, highlighted by his three Pro Bowl appearances. However, his ranking as the Cowboys’ first representative on this year’s list has raised questions given the team’s recent struggles and this past season’s setbacks.
Context Behind Prescott’s Ranking and Fan Reactions
Prescott’s No. 79 spot on the NFL Top 100 marks him as a player who still commands respect from his peers even after missing significant playing time last season. The Cowboys faced challenges with injuries along the offensive line and a receiving corps considered below par, yet Prescott’s individual skills and leadership seem to have maintained his standing.
Brandon Loree, a writer covering the NFL, reflected on Prescott’s ranking by stating,
“Despite missing half the season, #Cowboys Dak Prescott makes another Top 100 list,”
emphasizing the recognition Prescott receives when healthy. He added,
“To me, it says more about who the player the league knows he can be when healthy and the respect they have for him.”
—Brandon Loree, NFL Writer
Several fans echoed support for Prescott, with some noting that he may be the most underrated quarterback in the league given the criticism he often faces. One user commented,
“I genuinely believe that Dak Prescott might be the most underrated qb in the NFL. He does not deserve the amount of hate he gets. Still one of the best yet everyone hates on him bc he plays for the cowboys.”
—Anonymous NFL Fan
Others pointed to the context of the team’s circumstances, noting the challenges Prescott faced behind a weakened offensive line and limited receiving options, yet still considered him the top quarterback in the NFC by reputation.
“Dak Prescott coming in at 79 on the NFL’s top 100… in a year where the OL was banged up and young, the worst WR core behind CeeDee Lamb in the NFL, and a season ending injury…. The NFL knows he’s the best QB in the NFC,”
another fan remarked. —Anonymous NFL Fan
Critical Voices Question the Ranking’s Validity
Not all opinions praised Prescott’s ranking, with some fans contrasting his placement against other players and questioning the criteria used. A dissenting voice expressed disbelief by comparing Prescott’s ranking to others in the list, exclaiming,
“You’re telling me DAK PRESCOTT is better than Creed Humphrey AND Trent McDuffie????”
—Anonymous Commentator
Others referenced comparisons with players like Jalen Hurts, who has consistently been ranked higher and achieved greater postseason success over recent years.
“In the past 3 years, Hurts has been ranked higher than Dak all 3 times, won the NFC twice, won a Super Bowl and a SB MVP. Not a competition.”
—Anonymous NFL Analyst
Prescott’s Career and Future Outlook with the Cowboys
Since stepping in as the Cowboys’ starting quarterback, Dak Prescott has been a prominent figure in the NFL with a career marked by both impressive performances and challenges. While his compensation has reflected his role, the pressure to lead Dallas past their longstanding championship drought remains a critical point for both Prescott and owner Jerry Jones.
The upcoming season will be pivotal, as Prescott looks to overcome previous injuries and deliver the level of play needed to put Dallas back into Super Bowl contention. His ranking on the NFL Top 100 list, regardless of mixed reactions, underscores the league-wide recognition he still retains.
With the new NFL season on the horizon, many fans and analysts will eagerly watch how Prescott handles these expectations, as well as how his teammates and coaching staff support him in the quest for a Lombardi Trophy.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Dak Prescott number 4?
A. In the initial week of the rookie mini camp, he chose to wear the number 4 as a tribute to his mom’s September 4 birthday.