CLEVELAND — Dak Prescott quickly discovered that securing the largest contract in NFL history didn’t come without demands from his teammates. After signing a four-year deal worth $240 million, Prescott joked about the expectations, saying, “They’re expecting Rolexes. Everybody’s giving me their wrist size.”
In his first game after the contract announcement, Prescott threw a touchdown pass as the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Cleveland Browns 33-17, with the Cowboys’ defense dominating Deshaun Watson on his return to the field. The new contract makes Prescott the first player to average $60 million per season and puts to rest months of speculation regarding his future with the team.
Prescott, who aims to be the quarterback that finally leads the Cowboys to a Super Bowl victory, completed 19 of 32 passes for 179 yards during the game. His preparations for the game took a surprising turn when he received news of his contract from his agent just before heading to the stadium. He expressed gratitude towards teammate Ezekiel Elliott, who supported him early in his career.
Elliott, excited for Prescott, praised his hard work and dedication, stating, “I could not think of a more deserving person to get that contract.” In the first quarter, Prescott connected with Brandin Cooks for a 21-yard touchdown pass, helping the Cowboys gain a substantial lead early in the game.
Dallas kicker Brandon Aubrey showcased impressive performance with field goals from distances of 57, 50, 46, and 40 yards. Prescott’s contract came shortly after the Cowboys signed wide receiver CeeDee Lamb to a four-year, $136 million deal. Head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledged the distractions surrounding both contracts but praised Prescott for maintaining focus during the game.
Watson, returning from a shoulder injury suffered last November, struggled during the game. He was sacked six times and intercepted twice, finishing with 169 yards on 24-of-45 passing. The Browns faced difficulties, trailing by 17 points at halftime with only one first down and being outgained significantly.
On the first scoring drive for Dallas, Prescott demonstrated his arm strength with a deep completion to Lamb, before finding Cooks for the touchdown. Elliott contributed with a rushing touchdown that gave the Cowboys a comfortable 14-3 lead, following an initial field goal by the Browns.
In a notable moment, Aubrey appeared to set an NFL record with a 66-yard field goal, but it was negated due to a delay of game penalty.
In a fan-friendly gesture, Browns star Myles Garrett made a surprise appearance at a pregame tailgate, leading a chant with fans and being joined by Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell.
Injury updates for the Cowboys included tight end Jake Ferguson, who left with a knee injury, and linebacker Eric Kendricks, who had a strong game with two sacks. The Browns experienced injuries as well, with tight end David Njoku leaving with an ankle issue.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys will host New Orleans next Sunday, while the Browns travel to Jacksonville.