Dak Prescott vs. Jalen Hurts: Who’s the Top QB in the NFC East?

The NFC East has long been one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL, and with two standout quarterbacks at the helm of its top teams, the debate rages on: Is Dak Prescott or Jalen Hurts the best quarterback in the division?

Both bring leadership, mobility, and big-play potential, but they do it in very different ways — and each fanbase has their own strong opinions. Let’s break it down.

Experience & Longevity: Advantage Dak

Dak Prescott entered the league in 2016 and has since become a mainstay under center for the Dallas Cowboys. With multiple playoff appearances, over 170 touchdown passes, and more than 25,000 passing yards in his career, Dak has proven to be a durable and reliable leader.

His veteran status gives him an edge in terms of reading defenses, making adjustments at the line of scrimmage, and commanding the locker room. He’s been through the highs and lows of NFL life, and that level of experience is invaluable.

Jalen Hurts, on the other hand, became the full-time starter for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021 and quickly rose to stardom. While his sample size is smaller, his rapid development and leadership during the Eagles’ 2022 Super Bowl run can’t be ignored.

Play Style & Athleticism: Advantage Hurts

Jalen Hurts is one of the most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks in the league. His ability to extend plays with his legs and power through defenders makes him a nightmare for defenses. In 2022 alone, he rushed for over 700 yards and 13 touchdowns — numbers typically reserved for top-tier running backs.

Dak can scramble when needed and is a strong athlete, but he’s more of a traditional passer who prefers to stay in the pocket and distribute the ball. While this makes him more consistent in some areas, Hurts’ explosiveness gives him a dynamic edge.

Leadership & Intangibles: Evenly Matched

Both quarterbacks are praised for their leadership, work ethic, and off-field presence. Dak is known as the emotional core of the Cowboys, a vocal leader who has earned the respect of coaches and teammates alike. His poise after injury and personal tragedy (the loss of his brother) shows true character.

Hurts, meanwhile, leads by example. Quiet, focused, and driven, he has galvanized the Eagles’ locker room with a calm intensity. His rise from a bench role in college to starting in the Super Bowl speaks volumes about his resilience.

There’s no clear winner here — both men lead in their own powerful ways.

Team Impact & Success: Slight Edge to Hurts (For Now)

Jalen Hurts led the Eagles to an NFC Championship and a near Super Bowl win in the 2022 season. He was an MVP candidate and proved he could go toe-to-toe with Patrick Mahomes on the biggest stage. That alone gives him the current edge in terms of postseason success.

Dak, while consistent, hasn’t yet taken the Cowboys past the Divisional Round. Despite strong regular-season records, Dallas has stumbled when it matters most. Until he gets over that hump, comparisons to Hurts’ recent playoff performance will be hard to ignore.

That said, Dak’s consistent production and leadership have kept Dallas relevant for years. He’s the reason the Cowboys are a perennial playoff contender, and that counts for something.

Stats Comparison (as of 2024)

Hurts’ meteoric rise gives him the spotlight now, but Dak’s consistency still holds weight over a longer stretch.

Who’s Better Right Now?

If we’re talking “right now,” Jalen Hurts may have the upper hand. He’s younger, more athletic, and has shown he can take a team deep into the postseason. His upside is immense, and he’s surrounded by a team that complements his strengths.

But if you want a steady, proven leader with years of high-level NFL play, Dak Prescott is still a top-tier option. He’s shown resilience, command, and growth — and one strong playoff run could quickly flip the narrative in his favor.

Final Verdict

Jalen Hurts may be the current star, but Dak Prescott is still the standard.

The debate will continue as long as both QBs lead their franchises in high-stakes games. And that’s what makes it great for the NFC East — two quarterbacks pushing each other to be better, surrounded by fanbases who won’t back down.

So who’s the best QB in the NFC East?

Ask again after the next playoff run.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMmIUejK5oE