Dak Prescott’s $90M Payday Sparks Controversy—Is He Getting Preferential Treatment Over Deshaun Watson?

A Record-Breaking Deal That Shakes the NFL

Dak Prescott’s massive $90 million payday has sent shockwaves through the NFL, reigniting debates about quarterback value, contract fairness, and how teams prioritize their franchise players. While the Dallas Cowboys have doubled down on their commitment to Prescott, many are questioning whether he is being treated more favorably than other quarterbacks—particularly Deshaun Watson, whose contract situation remains one of the most polarizing in the league.

Is Prescott Worth the $90 Million?

The Cowboys’ decision to invest so heavily in Prescott speaks volumes about their confidence in his abilities. Since taking over as the team’s starting quarterback in 2016, he has been a consistent leader, posting impressive stats and keeping Dallas in playoff contention. However, despite his regular-season success, critics point to his lack of deep playoff runs as a reason why such a massive contract may not be justified.

With a $90 million commitment, the Cowboys are betting that Prescott can elevate the team to Super Bowl contention. The question remains: Is he truly a top-tier quarterback deserving of such a payday, or is Dallas overpaying based on faith rather than results?

Comparing Prescott and Watson: A Tale of Two Quarterbacks

Deshaun Watson, who signed a fully guaranteed $230 million contract with the Cleveland Browns, has been at the center of controversy for both on-field and off-field reasons. While Watson’s talent is undeniable, his legal troubles and inconsistent play since joining the Browns have clouded his legacy.

Some analysts argue that Prescott is benefiting from a cleaner reputation and a more stable organizational environment, leading to preferential treatment when it comes to contract negotiations. Watson, on the other hand, faced intense scrutiny for receiving such a lucrative deal, with many questioning whether the Browns made a reckless financial gamble.

The Impact on Future Quarterback Contracts

Prescott’s deal is likely to set a new precedent for quarterback negotiations moving forward. With star quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, and Lamar Jackson securing massive contracts, the market is continuously shifting. If Prescott’s payday is seen as justified, it could drive up salaries for other quarterbacks, making it even harder for teams to build competitive rosters under the salary cap.

On the flip side, if Prescott fails to deliver a Super Bowl, Dallas could face significant financial limitations, making it difficult to surround him with the necessary talent. This raises an important question: Are teams willing to mortgage their future for the sake of securing a franchise quarterback, even if championships don’t immediately follow?

Is This Preferential Treatment or Just Smart Business?

At the core of the controversy is whether Prescott is receiving more leniency than Watson due to his clean reputation and marketability. While both quarterbacks have secured historic contracts, the public perception surrounding each deal is vastly different.

Prescott is seen as a high-character leader who represents the Cowboys brand well, while Watson’s reputation has been marred by off-field allegations. Some argue that this discrepancy has led to Prescott’s contract being celebrated while Watson’s was met with criticism.

The Verdict: A Risk Dallas Had to Take?

The Cowboys’ decision to give Prescott $90 million is a gamble, but one they felt was necessary. In today’s NFL, securing a franchise quarterback is paramount, and Dallas believes Prescott gives them the best chance to win. Whether this deal proves to be a stroke of genius or a financial misstep will ultimately be determined by Prescott’s performance in the coming seasons.

For now, the debate rages on. Is Prescott’s payday a reflection of his talent and leadership, or is he benefiting from preferential treatment compared to quarterbacks like Watson? One thing is certain—the pressure is now on Prescott to justify every dollar of his record-breaking contract.