Mike McCarthy: Dak Prescott 'part of the solution moving forward'

If it’s up to head coach Mike McCarthy, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott isn’t going anywhere. On Thursday, McCarthy addressed Prescott’s future with the team, following the Cowboys’ 48-32 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.

“I believe in Dak Prescott,” McCarthy said during his season-ending press conference. “I think he’s the answer. He’s part of the solution moving forward. I think, as difficult as this time is right now, we can work through this emotional period that we’re in. We’ll continue to build off of what he brings to the table.”

Prescott had an excellent season, leading the NFL in touchdown passes (36) and passing completions (410). Nonetheless, the former Mississippi State standout couldn’t lead his team to victory in the Wildcard Round of the NFL Playoffs.

In the loss, Prescott threw for an impressive 403 yards and three touchdowns, but he also tossed two interceptions, including a pivotal pick-six. With the defeat, Prescott is now 2-5 in playoff games. Last season, Prescott and Co. fell to the San Francisco 49ers in the Divisional Round.

Mike McCarthy and Dak Prescott stick together

Prescott is the first person to criticize his performance, claiming it “sucked.” Despite his shortcoming, McCarthy is hopeful for the future. He revealed what the pair talked about during their end-of-season meeting.

“It was productive,” McCarthy said. “We talked about a range of things. The biggest thing with Dak, we spend so much time together… it’s more of a continuation of our conversation on a number of different topics.

“I have unbelievable belief in Dak, I think he clearly has another step. Think the offense has suited him well. It’s a system built on making a QB successful. The growth opportunity we both see in the future is something we’re excited about.”

Even if the Cowboys were interested in moving on from Prescott, it wouldn’t be easy. The three-time Pro Bowler has a no-trade clause in his contract and a cap hit of $59.4 million in 2024.

Prescott was one of the most emphatic players to speak on McCarthy’s behalf after the team’s loss on Sunday. He told reporters that if the head coach’s job was in jeopardy, then his should be on the hot seat, as well.

“He’s been amazing. I don’t know how there can be (questions about his job security), but understand the business. In that case, it should be about me as well…add me to that list,” Prescott said.