Legendary Cowboys HC Jimmy Johnson explains why Cowboys made error in giving Dak Prescott $240,000,000

Dak Prescott's contract has ignited a debate in the NFL community. Jimmy Johnson delivered a hot take on the team's decision to sign him to a massive extension.

Prescott's journey with the Dallas Cowboys has been a rollercoaster ride. He finished second in MVP voting in 2023; however, this season is a different story as he suffered a season-ending hamstring injury and the team only has a 4-7 record.

Johnson, a Hall of Fame coach who built the Cowboys' 1990s dynasty, brings a lot of credibility to his NFL commentary.

During his appearance on "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" on Wednesday, Johnson pulled no punches about Prescott's contract.

"I would have never given Prescott a new contract," Johnson said. "I would have let him play it out. He's the highest-paid player in the league, he's not the best player in the league.

"He wasn't going to go anywhere. If you're going to the Super Bowl with him, pay him whatever. If he struggled in the playoffs, then you negotiate. Or if he got hurt, you save money. They're so financially strapped right now, I don't know what they do."

The contract details are intriguing. Dak Prescott signed a four-year $240 million deal in September, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history. His 2024 cap hit is at $89.9 million, which represents a significant chunk of the Cowboys' salary cap.

Dallas Cowboys' financial puzzle with Dak Prescott

NFL: Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys - Source: Imagn

Jimmy Johnson's critique extends beyond Dak Prescott. He also weighed in on potential roster moves, particularly regarding defensive star Micah Parsons.

"Parsons is such a great, great player," Johnson said. "It'd have to be a boatload of picks to trade him. I wouldn't want to get rid of him. He is their whole defense. He is a game-changer."

Interestingly, despite Johnson's "financially strapped" comment, some reports suggest the Cowboys could have up to $100 million in cap space by 2025. This potential flexibility comes with CeeDee Lamb's recent $136 million extension and a potential new deal for Parsons.

The Cowboys' situation is complex. Prescott's injury happened as the team was already struggling. With Cooper Rush now starting, Dallas faces critical questions about its quarterback strategy and long-term roster construction.

Johnson also talked about a potential coaching change.

"I don't know if changing coaching is going to help them," Johnson said. "Mike McCarthy's a good football coach. I don't know if a new coach coming in can solve the problem."

The Cowboys stand at a crossroads. Prescott's contract, team performance and future roster decisions will define their path forward.