Dak Prescott’s Training Camp Plan: Cowboys Proceed with Caution
The Dallas Cowboys have officially arrived in Oxnard, California, for training camp, and while quarterback Dak Prescott is eager to hit the ground running, the coaching staff has other plans. Coming off a major injury — a torn hamstring that required surgery — the Cowboys are taking a cautious and calculated approach to Prescott’s workload this summer.
Prescott, who previously declared he would be “full go” for training camp, won’t be dictating his reps this time. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer made that very clear.
“Now that he’s in the over-30 club, we’re going to be smart with some of the things that we do with him,” Schottenheimer said with a smile. “He is anti that. He wants to do as much as possible. Luckily, we have the trump card with him on that.”
That “trump card” means that despite Prescott’s competitive spirit and tireless work ethic, the team will manage his reps carefully to ensure he doesn’t suffer a setback before the regular season begins.
Injury History & Strategic Recovery
The concern is understandable. Prescott has only completed a full regular season twice in the past five years, and at age 32 (his birthday is July 29), wear and tear is becoming a bigger factor. The torn hamstring he suffered last season — which ended his campaign prematurely — is just the latest in a series of injuries that have hampered his availability and performance.
Given the team’s high expectations and the importance of having Prescott healthy for the long haul, the Cowboys are prioritizing longevity over intensity during camp.
“Although Dak’s not going to like it as much, he’s very aware that we’re going to be intelligent with what he does,” Schottenheimer added.
The Bigger Picture
Prescott’s offseason included intense rehab, time with family, and personal growth. He welcomed his second daughter and shared an emotional post on social media that read:
“The story of life begins and ends with family. Thankful for a Great Off-season. It’s only UP from here!”
Still, “up” will come slowly in football terms. The Cowboys’ plan is to gradually ramp up Prescott’s participation to avoid another costly injury. While fans may want to see him at full speed right away, coaches understand that managing his reps now could pay off significantly when the season kicks off.
Protecting Their Investment
Prescott is entering the season on a massive $60 million-per-year contract, and the Cowboys cannot afford to lose their Pro Bowl quarterback again. For Schottenheimer, now in his first year as head coach, avoiding injury to his QB1 is critical to his early success.
Although it may frustrate Prescott to take things slow, the Cowboys believe they’re doing what’s best — not just for their quarterback, but for the team’s championship hopes.
So while Dak Prescott may not be “all gas” in Oxnard, the Cowboys are laying the groundwork for him to be full throttle in September — when it really matters.
