The Dallas Cowboys have confirmed that star quarterback Dak Prescott will not play in the preseason matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, with head coach Brian Schottenheimer explaining the reasoning behind the decision.
Prescott has yet to feature in any preseason snaps this year, and Schottenheimer emphasized that the move is intentional. Unlike younger quarterbacks still battling for a roster spot, Prescott’s status as a veteran leader means his preparation focuses on practice reps and building chemistry with his offense rather than taking unnecessary risks in August.
“Dak knows how to play quarterback,” Schottenheimer told reporters, stressing that the veteran has already been getting valuable reps during OTAs, training camp, and joint practices. He further explained that playing Prescott in preseason would create a domino effect: “If you play your quarterback, you’re playing your left tackle, you’re playing your left guard, you’re playing your starting receivers—it impacts everyone.”
The Cowboys believe the rhythm and timing of the passing game can be sharpened in practice, minimizing injury risk while still preparing Prescott for the regular season. After missing nine games last season due to a hamstring avulsion that required surgery, the franchise is prioritizing his health heading into Week 1.
Prescott participated fully throughout camp, showing no signs of the injury that sidelined him last year. With new coaching leadership under Schottenheimer and added offensive weapons, Dallas is betting on preparation and health preservation instead of preseason exposure.
The Cowboys vs Falcons preseason game is scheduled for Friday, August 22, but fans will have to wait until the regular season opener to see Prescott back in uniform.