1. Introduction
Every quarterback in the NFL is often defined by two pivotal markers—the longevity of their contract and the moment they entered the league. For the Dallas Cowboys’ signal-caller Dak Prescott, his current deal is as remarkable as his NFL breakthrough. This comprehensive guide digs deep into how many years are left on his contract and when he was drafted, giving fans and analysts the insights they crave.
2. Draft Day Origins: When Was Dak Prescott Drafted?
Dak Prescott’s NFL journey began in the 2016 NFL Draft, when the Dallas Cowboys selected him in the fourth round, 135th overall. Hailing from Mississippi State, Prescott slipped to the mid-rounds, but his selection quickly proved fortuitous. He became the first quarterback the Cowboys had drafted since 2009 and the fifth since Jerry Jones took over the franchise in 1989.
That draft night was emotionally intense. Prescott described it as both “bittersweet”—frustrated by the wait, yet elated when the Cowboys finally called. Thus began a career defined by resilience and exceeding expectations from the start.
3. The Monumental Contract: At a Glance
In September 2024, Prescott agreed to a massive four-year extension worth $240 million, with an average of $60 million per year—the highest AAV in NFL history at the time.
-
The contract includes $231 million guaranteed and an $80 million signing bonus.
-
This deal extended his tenure with the Cowboys through the 2028 season.
-
Key clauses: full no-trade protection, and prohibition on applying the franchise tag after 2028.
4. How Many Years Are Left on the Contract?
As of August 2025, Prescott’s contract covers the entire 2025 through 2028 seasons, meaning he has four years left on his current deal.
Contract timeline summary:
-
Signed: September 2024
-
Duration: Four years (2025–2028)
-
Free agency potential: Post-2028, as the deal runs through that season.
5. Breaking Down the Financials & Cap Impact
Here’s how the contract affects salary cap hits year-to-year:
| Year | Cap Hit |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $43.38 million (initial) |
| 2025 | $89.88 million |
| 2026 | $68.01 million |
| 2027 | $62.00 million |
| 2028 | $72.00 million (peak) |
| 2029+ | Includes void years |
These figures illustrate the Cowboys’ front-loaded strategy, providing substantial cap flexibility early, despite long-term financial commitments. Dak Prescott contract.
6. Why This Contract Matters
-
Highest AAV in NFL history: Prescott’s $60 million average set a new benchmark.
-
Financially elite: The contract’s structure allowed him to potentially earn more than peers like Lamar Jackson from 2026 to 2028.
-
Stability for Dallas: The deal secures their franchise quarterback’s future and sends a clear signal of commitment.
-
Strategic cap management: While expensive, the Cowboys spread it out to smooth out cap impacts in earlier seasons. Dak Prescott contract.
7. Career Recap: From Draft to Extension
-
Drafted: Fourth round of 2016 (135th overall).
-
Rookie start: Earned starting job immediately after Tony Romo’s preseason injury, capturing Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2016.
-
Awards & recognition: 3× Pro Bowl, Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2022), Second-team All-Pro (2023).
-
Contract flow:
-
2016: Rookie deal.
-
2021: 4-year, $160 million extension.
-
2024: Current 4-year, $240 million extension through 2028.
-
8. FAQs
Q1: How many years remain on Dak Prescott’s contract?
As of now, Prescott’s contract runs through the 2028 season, leaving four years remaining (2025–2028).
Q2: When did Dak Prescott sign his current extension?
He signed the extension in September 2024, ahead of that season’s opener.
Q3: What’s the average annual value of the contract?
His deal averages $60 million per year, marking the highest AAV at the time.
Q4: When was Prescott drafted and by whom?
The Dallas Cowboys drafted him in 2016, selecting him in the 4th round, 135th overall.
Q5: Are there notable contract clauses?
Yes—there’s a no-trade clause and a clause preventing the franchise tag from being applied after 2028.
Q6: How does his salary cap hit evolve?
Cap hits ramp up from ~$43M in 2024 to ~$72M in 2028, with a peak in later years due to contract structure.
Q7: Why is this contract so significant?
It sets league financial records, delivers long-term stability for the Cowboys, and positions Prescott among the NFL’s top-compensated QBs. Dak Prescott contract.
9. Conclusion
Dak Prescott’s journey—from a mid-round draft choice in 2016 to one of the wealthiest quarterbacks in NFL history—is a testament to his performance, leadership, and star power. With four years left on his $240 million deal and a legacy already being written, Prescott remains front and center in Dallas, and among the league’s elite.
Leave a Reply