Former NFL MVP raises major questions around Cowboys' plan for Deion Sanders

Former NFL MVP Cam Newton spots a critical dilemma in the Dallas Cowboys' potential hiring of Deion Sanders. He is concerned about the future of quarterback Dak Prescott, raising questions about roster management and strategic priorities for the franchise.

Newton, a seasoned NFL veteran, and Sanders, the Colorado Buffaloes head coach, stand at the center of this developing story. Sanders spoke with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones about the head coaching vacancy following Mike McCarthy's departure, as reported by NFL insider Adam Schefter earlier this week.

Speaking on his show "4th&1 With Cam Newton" on Friday, Newton dissected the implications of Sanders potentially joining the Cowboys.

"What if they do get Deion Sanders or Coach Prime in this situation, what do you do with Dak Prescott? Because Prime himself said, 'Only way I consider is if I can coach my sons.' What are you going to do with Dak? We just paid that big boy back, a 60 ball," Newton said (around the 44:16 mark).

Cam Newton's concerns touch on draft strategy and financial implications. His comments highlight the challenge of balancing the Cowboys' 12th overall pick with Deion Sanders' draft aspirations.

"Do you trade up and then find yourself in an Atlanta Falcons situation? And if you do bring Coach Prime in, he's made it clear... if I'm Dak Prescott, what does that say to me?" Newton questioned on his show.

Newton's comments align with mounting speculation about Deion Sanders's future. NFL insider Ed Werder reported on Thursday that Sanders "would almost certainly accept" if offered the Cowboys' head coaching position.

Deion Sanders' effect on Dallas' future

NCAA Football: Alamo Bowl-Brigham Young at Colorado - Source: Imagn

During an appearance on "GMA3," Deion Sanders made his stance clear about coaching his sons.

"The only way I would consider is to coach my sons," Sanders said on Jan 7.

He was referencing Shedeur, a top quarterback prospect, and Shilo, a safety entering the 2025 NFL draft.

The Cowboys face additional hurdles beyond roster decisions. Reports from WFAA indicate Sanders carries an $8 million buyout from Colorado.

McCarthy's departure after posting a 49-35 record across five seasons, including three playoff berths, sets high expectations for his successor. The Cowboys join five other NFL teams seeking new head coaches, though the Patriots filled their vacancy with Mike Vrabel.

As Dallas weighs its options, the front office's decision could reshape the NFL landscape. WFAA's Ed Werder noted that hiring Sanders would elevate the Cowboys "past the Chiefs when it comes to overall interest and intrigue." This can be the kind of impact Jerry Jones historically pursues.