Colts: Dak Prescott contract preference falls right into Indy’s prime window

The Colts would be smart to monitor Dak Prescott’s contract situation.

If you thought we would take a break from discussing how the Indianapolis Colts only have one quarterback under contract heading into the offseason, congratulations, because you played yourself.

In all seriousness, this is a pressing issue that demands consistent conversation when you consider that the Colts are arguably a franchise-caliber gunslinger away from being able to compete for a championship. After all, had a few more plays gone their way in the first round of the playoffs, chances are they punch a ticket to the AFC Championship Game instead of Buffalo, given how awful the Ravens looked this past weekend.

As far as potential QB options for next season are concerned, Dak Prescott has been mentioned as somebody who could become available in free agency if contract negotiations between he and the Cowboys continue to flame out. If GM Chris Ballard had a killer instinct (that goes without saying), he would keep a sharp eye on this situation.

What makes Prescott such a no-brain option — other than his quarterback intangibles, of course — is that his contract demands fall right into the Colts’ championship window. The two-time Pro Bowler reportedly wants a maximum of a four-year deal to give him the flexibility to ink another lucrative contract in his prime.

The Cowboys, on the other hand, want to sign him to either a five- or six-year contract to give them extra security at the most important position. Such a deal would also make his likely monster salary easier to swallow, as a shorter contract would increase his annual average salary significantly.

With a projected $68 million in cap space lined up for 2021, which is the second-most in the league, Indianapolis can afford to pay Prescott pretty much whatever he wants while keeping in mind that studs like Darius Leonard and Quenton Nelson will be due for extensions soon as well.

As evidenced by his first five seasons, Prescott (for the most part) needs a stable offensive line and strong rushing attack to be utterly dominant. The Colts clearly already have those pieces in place and are a trade or free agent signing away from flaunting an elite receiving corps to boot.

We’re not sure what more needs to be said. If Dallas continues to botch negotiations with the 27-year-old star — he probably won’t want to play under the franchise tag again after fracturing his ankle without long-term security — the Colts should be poised to swoop in and steal him right from under owner Jerry Jones’ nose.

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