Dallas Cowboys News: Dak Prescott Among MVP Candidates In Return From Injury

Expectations are high for Dak Prescott in his first season back from a devastating ankle injury that prematurely ended his 2020 campaign. The Dallas Cowboys quarterback is listed among the top contenders to win the 2021 MVP award.

Prescott is one of eight players who have better than 20/1 MVP odds at BetOnline. The offshore sportsbook gives Prescott 18/1 odds for the upcoming season, putting him ahead of the likes of Russell Wilson (22/1) and Deshaun Watson (22/1).

Not surprisingly, Patrick Mahomes (5/1) is the betting favorite to be the 2021 MVP. Reigning MVP Aaron Rodgers (9/1) is second, followed by Josh Allen (10/1).

Lamar Jackson (14/1) and Matthew Stafford (14/1) are given slightly better odds than Prescott. Tom Brady (16/1) and Kyle Murray (16/1) are essentially in the same tier as the Cowboys’ star.

Before getting hurt in Week 5, Prescott was putting up MVP-caliber numbers in the 2020 season. With 1,856 passing yards, Prescott was on pace to break the all-time record. The 27-year-old had nine passing touchdowns, four interceptions and a 99.6 passer rating.

Prescott also rushed for three touchdowns last season. The Cowboys had a 2-3 record in his five starts.

The 2019 season might’ve been Prescott’s best year as a pro. Even though Dallas underachieved with an 8-8 record, Prescott set career-highs with 4,902 yards and 30 touchdown passes to go along with a 99.7 passer rating.

Dallas gave Prescott a four-year, $160 million contract in the offseason. He will reportedly be paid $75 million in 2021.

Prescott has been seen back on the field throwing and working out, following two surgeries last year. The quarterback is expected to be ready to participate in training camp this summer.

"I'll be ready when it matters," Prescott said at a press conference after inking his new contract. "And I'll be more than healthy and better than I was before."

With injuries to Prescott and key offensive linemen, the Cowboys went 6-10 last season and missed the playoffs. Dallas still managed to finish in the top half of the NFL in total offense.

The Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants and Washington Football Team all have questions at quarterback. The Cowboys are the early favorite to win the NFC East.