The Dallas Cowboys have seen many stars wear the uniform, but few have values quite like Dak Prescott. Pro Football Focus has placed him in fourth position among the most valuable non-first-round draft picks since 2016.

Many NFL teams found franchise-changing talent outside the first round, but Prescott stands out because of his longevity impact in Dallas. While first-round quarterbacks often dominate headlines, Prescott went from the 135th overall selection to becoming the face of one of the league's most branded franchises.

"Prescott is somewhat of a polarising figure among NFL fans, but the simple reality is that he's become a stabilizing franchise quarterback despite being a fourth-round selection," wrote PFF.

Since taking over as the Cowboys' starter during his rookie year, he has consistently performed at a high level. According to PFF, Prescott has recorded six seasons with an overall grade above 80.0 and ranks sixth in Wins Above Replacement since entering the NFL.

Widely considered one of the biggest draft steals in modern NFL history, Prescott's journey becomes more impressive when compared to the 2016 quarterback class. While top picks such as Carson Wentz and Jared Goff entered the league with high expectations, Prescott turned out to be one of the class's most reliable long-term starters.

Prescott holds a career win-loss record of 83-55-1. He has recorded 35,989 passing yards, 243 touchdowns, and 92 interceptions. But his value goes beyond statistics. He has provided stability at the game's most important position while helping Dallas remain a long-lasting playoff contender.

Even critics who point to postseason shortcomings cannot deny the fact that the Cowboys found a franchise QB outside the first three rounds, which is very rare.

As the Cowboys continue building around their veteran QB, Prescott's place among the NFL's greatest draft bargains appears secure.

And surprisingly, Prescott recently won another achievement, proving he deserves a spot among the league's greatest leaders.

Dak Prescott's latest honor

Dak Prescott added another achievement to his résumé after being named the 2026 PFWA Good Guy Award winner, an honor recognizing the players' professionalism and interaction with the media.

The Dallas Cowboys QB became the first player in franchise history to receive the award, building his reputation as one of the league's most respected leaders off the field.

Prescott regularly fulfills his media obligations and even chats with the local media freely.

“Dak Prescott is one of the more accessible star players in the NFL. He talks once a week during the season and of course after every game. However, if Dak is needed for an off-the-record conversation, he’s there for you,” said Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News.

Despite the recognition, Prescott continues to face criticism from NFL fans who focus more on Dallas' postseason struggles. While debates about his on-field legacy stay active, his interaction with the media and the community continues to earn appreciation.

The award adds to a career that already includes multiple Pro Bowl selections and the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year honor. For Cowboys supporters, it's a reminder that Prescott is much more than just his performance on the field.

What are your views on Dak Prescott's achievements? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason