FRISCO — Very often, the profile of the Dallas Cowboys gets their most notable players into trouble, even on the simplest of actions. A conversation between Micah Parson and Trevon Diggs did just that this week.
The Cowboys' two defensive stars discussed the top quarterbacks in the NFL on this week's episode of "The Edge with Micah Parsons." While listing out their own potential top-five and top-10 nominees, they left a key name off the list.
Going as far as mentioning division rivals in Washington Commanders' quarterback Jayden Daniels and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, they left Dak Prescott out of the conversation.
That admission has some up in arms about the betrayal of the teammate. However, in context has little to do with their leader and more about the quarterback landscape in the NFL. (And one other issue, too.)
Issue No. 1: For Prescott, he likely has not met his own standards, either. Just in the Cowboys' last three games, he has accounted for seven turnovers including six interceptions. So maybe it's "simply true, love ya', no hard feelings'' ... but at this moment, Dak's name doesn't jump to the head of the class in anybody's mind.
That type of play is not becoming of a top-10 quarterback, much less the highest paid player in the league. But the question now becomes whether or not Prescott can force himself into that conversation in the second half of the season.
Much of the circumstances around Prescott have not been fair. He has received little to no support from his run game, his offensive line has struggled and his receivers are not creating enough separation.
These conditions altogether are the opposite of ideal for a quarterback navigating a slump. But they are not likely to improve, either. Since much of the Cowboys adversity rests outside of his control, Prescott must become a master of the things within his grasp. That means minimizing gambles and trusting his quick delivery rather than waiting for a perfect window.
While it may not guarantee an overall improvement for the Cowboys, Prescott's individual game will take strides forward. If Dallas' best player is playing his best ball, that is when this team will have their best chance.
Perhaps Prescott can start this weekend against the Atlanta Falcons. A strong reminder would be a good way to make his teammates revisit their rankings. ... which brings us to ...
Issue No. 2: We hate to come across as haughty and stuffy "Big J'' journalists. But there are real pitfalls in doing a live broadcast without doing some old-fashioned preparation.
It would've been easy, with a moment of forethought, to announce, "Our top 10 doesn't include Dak because we're biased toward him. So this is the 'Outside-of-Dak Top 10.'' But alas, no.
Micah and Trevon were winging it ... and exposing themselves to be well short of being "broadcast professionals'' in the process.
