Dak Prescott, the quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, is on the verge of breaking Peyton Manning’s NFL career contract earnings record, needing just $156,000 to do so. Since signing his notable 2024 contract extension offered by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Prescott has consistently held one of the most lucrative quarterback salaries in the league, averaging $60 million annually.
Career Earnings Standing Among NFL Elite
Currently, Prescott ranks as the 11th highest earner in NFL history, having accumulated $248,576,645 from contracts over his nine-year career. To surpass Manning’s total of $248,732,000, Prescott must receive one more paycheck, which is nearly guaranteed given his current contract status. Interestingly, Eli Manning, Peyton’s brother, holds a higher career total of $252,280,004, placing him just above both quarterbacks.
Predicting Prescott’s Potential As a Top-Nine Earner
Given Prescott’s expected earnings of over $3.7 million before retirement, it is almost certain that he will overtake both Manning brothers and become the ninth highest-paid quarterback in NFL history. Despite challenges, including a 2-5 playoff record and limited NFC Championship appearances, the Cowboys have supported Prescott generously, solidifying his financial legacy even if his next contract comes from a different team.
Challenges Impacting Future Contracts
As Prescott ages, factors such as his limited postseason success may affect the size of his next contract. Without significant playoff achievements moving forward, it is unlikely he will reach the levels of earnings of other top quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers, who earned more than $380 million in a 20-year career. Rodgers still holds the highest total among players in the league’s history.
Context of NFL’s Highest Contract Earners
Other quarterbacks with significant career earnings include Matthew Stafford, the Los Angeles Rams’ current lead and one-time Super Bowl winner, who trails Rodgers. Tom Brady, despite often taking pay cuts while with the New England Patriots, ranks third in career earnings. Additionally, Russell Wilson and Matt Ryan round out the top five players who have made over $300 million through their NFL careers.
Prescott’s Unique Position Among Top Earners
While Prescott stands out among these elite earners, he remains the least decorated quarterback compared to names like Rodgers, Brady, Drew Brees, and Peyton Manning. Fans and analysts often debate his postseason record and accolades, yet Prescott’s financial success remains undeniable. With the backing of Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys, he continues to secure substantial earnings as his career progresses.
“Despite a painful lack of NFC Championship appearances that are a direct result of a career playoff record of 2-5, the Cowboys have been very good to Prescott, so even if his next and potentially final contract doesn’t happen to be with Dallas, he’ll still be primed to ride off into the sunset as one of the most-expensive quarterbacks to ever come through the league.” —analysts
“Of course, Prescott’s status as an aging veteran, in addition to his lack of postseason wins, will ultimately hinder the figures associated with his next deal. Unless he’s able to start delivering when it matters most, it’s unlikely that he’ll be able to surpass the likes of Aaron Rodgers to become the highest paid player in NFL history.” —pundits
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Dak Prescott number 4?
A. In the initial week of rookie mini camp, he chose to wear jersey number #4 to honor his mother, whose birthday falls on September 4th.
Q. Is Dak Prescott a top 10 QB?
A. Dak Prescott agreed to a huge four-year, $240 million deal with the Cowboys just a year ago. However, before the 2025 season, he is no longer in the top 10 of ESPN’s annual quarterback rankings.
Q. Is Dak Prescott top 10 QB?
A. Lamar Jackson has a passer rating of 120.7.