Former Cowboy: 'Not fair to blame' QB Dak Prescott for playoff disappointments

An anonymous player who was teammates with Prescott and former Cowboys QB Tony Romo noted they receive too much flack, and the team must take accountability for postseason disappointments.

"It's not fair to put it all on Dak or Tony," the anonymous player told ESPN's Todd Archer. "Everyone needed to get it done."

The Cowboy defense folded in a 48-32 wild-card round loss to the Green Bay Packers. Per Josh Dubow of the Associated Press, they tied for the second-most points allowed in a home playoff game in league history. Prescott, meanwhile, completed 41-of-60 passes for 403 yards, three TDs and two picks.

Prescott is still in his prime. This season, he played at an MVP level, finishing first in the league in passing TDs (36 in 17 games), second in QBR (72.6) and third in passing yards (4,516). He also earned a second-team All-Pro nod.

But like Romo — who went 2-4 in the postseason — his regular-season success hasn't translated in big moments. According to CBS Sports, Prescott is tied with Alex Smith and Billy Kilmer for the worst playoff record (minimum of five starts) in league history.

Prescott is entering the final year of a four-year, $160M contract. Extending him will lower his 2024 cap number ($59.45M), clearing more space. He reportedly wants $55M to $60M annually, making him the highest-paid player in the league. 

Former NFL executive and 33rd Team contributor Jeff Diamond suggested Dallas tie his salary to playoff incentives. If the Cowboys extend the 30-year-old, this is a solid strategy. Offering him a carrot will motivate him, which could help him win his first Super Bowl.