FRISCO, Texas — The season is over for Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
Owner and general manager Jerry Jones confirmed on Tuesday’s episode of 105.3 The Fan in Dallas that Prescott will undergo surgery to repair a partial avulsion hamstring injury in New York on Wednesday.
Prescott traveled to New York on Monday to consult with a specialist, fully understanding surgery was the likely course of action. Following Sunday’s loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Prescott expressed his desire to ensure this wouldn’t become a recurring issue.
“It’s more common in hockey,” Jones stated. “He has doctors highly experienced in repairing it. His prognosis is excellent. It just means we won’t have him for the rest of the year.”
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Prescott likely wouldn’t have returned this season even without surgery, as multiple sources indicated a six to eight-week recovery period before potential return. The Cowboys, currently 3-6 with eight games remaining, face an uphill battle.
The surgery extends Prescott’s recovery timeline to three months.
The injury occurred in the Cowboys’ November 3rd loss to the Atlanta Falcons during a run play. Television viewers observed Prescott appearing visibly distressed after a shaky pass to the sideline; his final attempt on a potential touchdown screen pass landed incomplete.
This marks the second time in five seasons Prescott has prematurely ended a season due to injury. In 2020, he suffered a compound fracture and dislocation of his right ankle during the fifth game of the season.
The 31-year-old Prescott concludes this season with 1,978 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He signed a lucrative four-year, $240 million contract extension with the Cowboys in September, solidifying his position as the highest-paid quarterback in NFL history.
Prescott’s recent injury list includes this surgery, along with a broken right thumb requiring five games missed in 2022 and shoulder surgery after that season.
The Cowboys will place Prescott on injured reserve, opening a roster spot, but have signed Will Grier to the practice squad, ensuring three quarterbacks will be available. Cooper Rush will make his second consecutive start against the Houston Texans on Monday, backed up by Trey Lance.
Grier previously played for the Cowboys from 2021-22 before being released prior to the 2023 season. Most recently, he was on the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad.
Dak Prescott to Undergo Season-Ending Surgery on Hamstring Injury
A Major Blow for the Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2023 NFL season after suffering a significant hamstring injury in Week 1. The team confirmed that Prescott will undergo surgery to repair the damage, effectively ending his campaign.
Injury Details and Timeline
Prescott’s injury occurred during the Cowboys’ opening game against the New York Giants. While scrambling out of the pocket, he awkwardly twisted his left hamstring, immediately signaling pain and clutching at his leg. Initial examinations indicated a serious strain, requiring further evaluation.
Following a period of rest and conservative treatment, it became clear that surgery was the best course of action to ensure a full recovery. The procedure will involve repairing damaged tendons and ligaments within the hamstring, a complex process with a lengthy rehabilitation period.
Expected Recovery Time
The recovery timeline for this type of surgery can vary significantly depending on factors such as the severity of the injury, individual healing rates, and adherence to physical therapy protocols. However, it is estimated that Prescott will require anywhere from 6 to 9 months before being cleared for full football activities.
Implications for the Cowboys
Prescott’s absence represents a huge blow for the Dallas Cowboys, who were widely anticipated to be Super Bowl contenders this season. The veteran quarterback led the team to numerous victories in recent years and was expected to once again spearhead their offense.
The impact of Prescott’s injury extends beyond simply replacing his production on the field. His leadership qualities and ability to elevate the performance of his teammates are irreplaceable assets that will be deeply missed during his absence.
Backup Quarterback Options
With Prescott sidelined, the Cowboys will turn to their backup quarterbacks to fill the void. Cooper Rush, who has proven capable in limited opportunities, is expected to assume starting duties for the foreseeable future.
The team may also explore other options at quarterback through trades or free agency depending on Rush’s performance and their long-term goals.
Focusing on the Future
Despite this significant setback, the Dallas Cowboys remain committed to competing for a championship. While Prescott’s absence presents a major challenge, they possess a talented roster capable of overcoming adversity.
The team will now focus on supporting Rush, developing young players, and remaining competitive throughout the season. Their ultimate success will depend on their ability to adapt and execute effectively in Prescott’s absence.
Injury Prevention Strategies for Football Players
Hamstring injuries are a common occurrence in football, often resulting from sudden changes in direction, sprinting, or forceful pivoting. To minimize the risk of such injuries, players can implement several preventive strategies:
**Table 1: Injury Prevention Tips for Football Players**
| Tip | Description |
|—|—|
| **Proper Warm-Up:** | Engage in dynamic stretching and light cardio before practice and games to increase muscle temperature and flexibility. |
| **Strength Training:** | Focus on strengthening key muscles, particularly the hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, and hip flexors. |
| **Flexibility Exercises:** | Incorporate regular static stretching routines to improve hamstring range of motion and reduce tightness. |
| **Proper Technique:** | Emphasize proper running mechanics and landing techniques to minimize stress on the hamstrings. |
| **Gradual Increase in Intensity:** | Avoid sudden increases in workload or training intensity, allowing the body to adapt gradually. |
By adhering to these preventive measures, players can significantly reduce their susceptibility to hamstring injuries and maintain optimal performance throughout the season.
