Mike McCarthy expects Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys to incorporate more QB run plays

This time last year, there were still questions surrounding Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Nobody was quite sure how he was going to move fresh off a season-ending ankle injury suffered in Week 5 of the 2020 season. Always known for being a more mobile quarterback, it was a serious concern for Prescott.

Now, a whole season has passed and according to Dallas head coach Mike McCarthy, there are no more concerns in that area. In fact, he believes Prescott is going to get more involved in offensive coordinator Kellen Moore‘s run game this year.

McCarthy said Dallas is going to incorporate more designed runs for Prescott this season now that the ankle injury is no longer a concern. He admitted they attempted to be “smart” with how Prescott was used last season, wanting him to ease back into full football speed.

As to why the Cowboys plan on switching it up, McCarthy said his quarterback is “clearly” more comfortable scrambling and taking off running than he was a year ago. The head coach described Prescott as “leaner” and “more flexible” when talking to reporters.

Prescott has been an effective runner throughout his entire career, averaging nearly five yards per carry over six years in Dallas. He has 1,460 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns but the numbers have taken a huge dive over the last three years.

During the first half of his career, Prescott scored 18 total rushing touchdowns, having six in each season. Since then, three is his highest total and the quarterback only got one last year. McCarthy and company will be looking to get some of those numbers back up for the 2022 season.

Dak Prescott discussed Dalton Schultz OTA situation

The Dallas Cowboys are going through voluntary OTAs without star tight end Dalton Schultz. Although it’s a drawback for the offense to practice without him, starting quarterback Dak Prescott expressed his support for his teammate as he chases a larger deal.

“I went through this process. A lot of people go through this process. I’m confident in that situation,” Prescott said, via Jon Machota. “Me and Schultz talk all the time, so I knew what was happening, the team does. We’ll handle it.”

Last season, Dalton Schultz connected with Dak Prescott for a career-high 78 receptions for 808 yards and eight touchdowns. With Amari Cooper gone, Schultz’s role could be even bigger in 2022.