Dallas, TX — In a moment that goes far beyond football, Dak Prescott, quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys, has shared a deeply personal and emotional message about his 63-year-old father, Nathaniel “Nat” Prescott — a message that has brought the NFL community to a pause.
With his usual poise turned to raw vulnerability, Dak’s words today shook not only fans of the Cowboys but every corner of the sports world.
“Right now, I’m not speaking as the Cowboys’ quarterback — I’m speaking as a son.”
In a heartfelt video posted across his official social media accounts, Dak Prescott opened up about his father’s declining health, and what it has meant to face that battle off the field:
“My dad, Nat, is going through a really tough time. He’s the strongest man I’ve ever known, and the one who gave me the fight I bring to the field every Sunday. Today, I’m asking for your prayers — not for me, but for him. We need all the love and strength we can get right now.”
Nathaniel Prescott: The man behind the leader
Known for his leadership, toughness, and resilience, Dak Prescott has long credited his father Nat as one of his greatest influences. A former commercial driver and devoted father, Nat helped shape Dak’s mentality through humble beginnings and a hard-working Texas upbringing.
In past interviews, Dak shared how Nat taught him how to handle life’s pressure — something that clearly translated into his calm, steady play under center.
“He taught me how to stay strong when life hits hard. He’s my foundation.”
NFL family unites behind Dak
The moment Dak’s emotional video went live, the NFL community rallied behind him. Coaches, players, and fans flooded social media with support, using the now-trending hashtag #StrengthForNat.
Stars like Micah Parsons, Patrick Mahomes, and J.J. Watt shared public messages of encouragement, while Cowboys Nation turned their focus to one of their own.
“Dak has always been there for this team. Now we’re here for him,” tweeted Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch.
The Cowboys offer full support
The Dallas Cowboys organization quickly responded with a statement, offering full backing to their quarterback during this time:
“Dak has led this team through adversity on and off the field. He has our full support, and we stand with him and his family through this personal challenge,” said Head Coach Mike McCarthy.
The team has also confirmed that Dak is free to take any time he needs to be with his family.
More than a game — it’s about humanity
In a league where performance and pressure dominate headlines, moments like these serve as a solemn reminder: our heroes wear helmets, but they are human, too.
Dak Prescott, one of the most respected and inspirational leaders in today’s NFL, now asks for something beyond the game — a moment of solidarity, hope, and prayer for the man who made him who he is.