Dak Prescott named finalist for 2023 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award

Dallas Cowboys star quarterback Dak Prescott earned a spot amongst the league’s eight finalists for the 2023 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award, the NFL announced on Thursday. Prescott, the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year, is in his eighth year in the league and leading the Cowboys to another post-season run with their 10-3 record. Though he is having a stellar year, the Art Rooney nomination signifies his sportsmanship – not his performance.

Per the league’s announcement on Thursday morning, the award goes to “an NFL player who best demonstrates the qualities of on-field sportsmanship, including fair play, respect for the game and opponents, and integrity in competition.” Created in 2014, the award honors the founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pro Football Hall of Famer Art Rooney. Rooney passed away in 1988.

Joining Prescott in the list of eight finalists are Raiders DE Maxx Crosby, Cardinals S Budda Baker, 49ers FB Kyle Juszczyk, Chargers LB Khalil Mack, Jets LB C.J. Mosley, Seahawks LB Bobby Wagner and Ravens G Kevin Zeitler.

Coming off of a win against the Eagles, Prescott now has 3,505 passing yards and 185 rushing yards this season. He has 30 total touchdowns and just six interceptions. His completion rate this season, 69.3%, is the highest it’s been in his career so far. Last season, he earned the Walter Payton Man of the Year award for his work with his Faith, Fight, Finish Foundation.

Players to vote on Art Rooney Award in December

A panel of former players from the NFL Legends Community selected the eight finalists from the 32 nominees. The panel is comprised of Warrick Dunn, Larry Fitzgerald, Curtis Martin and Leonard Wheeler. The eight finalists were listed on the Pro Bowl ballot under the NFL Sportsmanship Award category. Players will vote for their choice for the award this month. The ultimate winner will receive a $25,000 donation from the NFL Foundation to a charity of his choice.

“Sportsmanship is the core of the game, the vanguard of public confidence, the keeper of game integrity,” said Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations. “These Rooney Sportsmanship Award nominees exemplify the spirit of fair play and the values of respect, integrity, commitment to team and resiliency at the highest level of competition.”

Past winners of the award include Charles Woodson, Larry Fitzgerald, Frank Gore, Drew Brees, Adrian Peterson and, most recently, Ravens defensive tackle Calais Campbell.