Dak Prescott Thrives Amid Intense Practices as Cowboys Training Camp Intensifies

As training camp unfolds in Oxnard, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has set a clear tone: "physical a-- practices" are the expectation. The intensity has certainly ramped up, with multiple fist fights erupting during sessions, drawing Schottenheimer's attention.

"Here's the deal, I love the intensity," Schottenheimer remarked. "I love the way they're practicing, but it went too far. I had warned them before, and I've made it very clear. We are not throwing punches. If you throw a punch, there are consequences, just like in a game, and you're out of practice."

However, franchise quarterback Dak Prescott sees things differently. "I think it's a good thing," he stated. "It's football. It's high emotions. You got guys out here practicing and competing for their life… competing for their job. You've got to have that edge. They're being taught and told to compete every day. Some guys compete in different ways. You're going to have those disagreements, but they've been doing a good job of hyping each other up. I think there's a fine line, and we're flirting with it. I think that's healthy."

Prescott's perspective is shaped by his own journey. Drafted in the fourth round of 2016, he found himself behind Tony Romo and Kellen Moore initially. It was injuries to both players that opened the door for him, leading to a remarkable career.

Now, as a seasoned veteran, Prescott maintains that same high-intensity mindset. "The very first one, I was just trying to get a job," he recalled about his rookie camp. "As guys got injured, it was about showing that I can do it and showing that I belonged. I want to get better each and every day in every way that I can. I can't say that's changed from 24-year-old Dak in his second year to now."

Since Schottenheimer took the helm, Prescott has embodied his coach's infectious energy. Frequently seen leading drills with enthusiasm, he aims to energize his teammates. "Honestly, I was told not to do those drills just from health," Prescott explained. "I'm not about to sit there, cross my arms and watch them. The whole point of the drill is to get some juice going. If I've got to be the hype man, that's what I'm going to do. It's probably why I'm losing my voice."

After missing the final nine games of the previous season due to a hamstring injury, Prescott is now fully fit and ready to tackle the challenge of guiding the Cowboys toward their first Super Bowl in three decades.

"Schotty said it on day one, 'If you don't want to win a Super Bowl or don't think we can win a Super Bowl, then don't come to Oxnard,'" Prescott noted. "We know the standard when you wear the star. We know the expectations. I credit Schotty for not shying away from it. You've got to take the steps each and every day with that in the forefront of your mind. We don't need to peak right now, but we do need to make sure we are getting better."