Blockbuster Trade: Cowboys Send Dak Prescott to Steelers for Three Future Second-Round Picks
In a stunning development that has sent ripples through the NFL landscape, the Dallas Cowboys have officially traded quarterback Dak Prescott to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for three future second-round draft picks. The move represents a major shakeup for both franchises and may alter the trajectory of their future success.
Prescott Era Ends in Dallas
Dak Prescott’s journey with the Cowboys began in 2016 when he was selected in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. He quickly became a fan favorite and the face of the franchise after stepping in for an injured Tony Romo and never looking back. Over the years, Prescott showcased strong leadership, toughness, and poise under pressure, leading Dallas to multiple playoff appearances and putting up impressive individual numbers. However, the team fell short of reaching a Super Bowl during his tenure.
After nearly a decade with the organization, the Cowboys’ decision to move on from Prescott signals a desire to reset their approach and retool the roster for long-term success. While Prescott still had productive years left, Dallas evidently felt the time was right to capitalize on his value, especially considering his significant salary cap hit and the franchise’s inability to get over the playoff hump.
The trade gives Dallas an opportunity to reshape its identity while saving cap space and gaining draft flexibility. With three second-round picks incoming—likely spread across the next few drafts—the Cowboys now have more ammunition to address multiple roster needs, including offensive line depth, secondary help, and potentially a quarterback of the future.
Why the Steelers Made the Move
From the Steelers’ perspective, this move addresses the team’s biggest question mark: quarterback stability. Since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement in 2022, Pittsburgh has rotated through a handful of options, including Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph. None managed to cement themselves as the long-term answer.
Enter Dak Prescott.
Prescott brings immediate credibility to the position. A proven veteran with over 29,000 passing yards and 170+ touchdowns under his belt, he offers the kind of leadership and consistency the Steelers have sorely lacked. At age 31, he still has several productive years ahead and should thrive behind a revamped offensive line and surrounded by young weapons like George Pickens, Najee Harris, and Pat Freiermuth. The Steelers also recently bolstered their receiving corps with offseason moves, making this a much more appealing destination for a quarterback of Prescott’s caliber.
Additionally, the AFC North is one of the league’s most competitive divisions, featuring quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Deshaun Watson. With Prescott now in the fold, the Steelers are well-positioned to contend in the division and push for a deep playoff run.
A Calculated Gamble for Both Sides
For the Cowboys, this is a bold gamble. Prescott was a stabilizing force at the game’s most important position. Now, they face uncertainty—either relying on a current backup, making a move in free agency, or drafting a new signal-caller. They could be targeting a rookie in the upcoming draft, aiming to build a younger core around stars like Micah Parsons and CeeDee Lamb, who will soon command major contract extensions.
Yet, there’s upside to this strategy. With Prescott’s contract off the books, Dallas will gain valuable cap flexibility. The additional second-round picks provide depth in a draft range that often yields starting-caliber players without the premium cost of first-rounders. This gives the Cowboys the chance to reshape their roster with smart, strategic additions.
On the flip side, the Steelers are taking a calculated risk by giving up multiple second-rounders, but they believe Prescott is the missing piece. Second-round picks are valuable, but the chance to acquire a franchise quarterback often outweighs the uncertainty of draft picks—especially when the rest of the roster is built to win now.
Fan and Media Reaction
Reactions have been mixed, as expected. Cowboys fans are divided: some are relieved at the fresh start and excited about the future possibilities, while others feel the franchise has moved on too soon from a respected leader. Media analysts are praising the Cowboys for securing significant draft capital, though questions remain about their immediate plans at quarterback.
Steelers fans, on the other hand, are mostly thrilled. Prescott’s arrival brings hope to a team that has hovered around mediocrity the past few seasons. The move signals that the organization is all-in on winning now and is not content to sit in quarterback purgatory.
What’s Next?
For Dallas, the clock is ticking. They need a new starting quarterback and must decide whether to go with an in-house option, sign a free agent, or use their newfound draft picks to move up in the draft. Head coach Mike McCarthy is under pressure, and this offseason will be critical in determining whether the team can quickly retool or sink into a longer rebuild.
For Pittsburgh, the focus will be on integrating Prescott into their offensive system. Expect offseason training camps and OTAs to revolve around building chemistry between Prescott and his new teammates. If everything clicks, the Steelers could be a legitimate threat in the AFC.
Conclusion
This blockbuster trade marks a dramatic shift in direction for both teams. Dallas gains future flexibility and draft capital to build toward a new era, while Pittsburgh hopes Prescott is the answer to their long-standing quarterback void. As with any major move, time will tell who ultimately comes out ahead—but one thing is certain: the NFL just got a lot more interesting
