Dalton Schultz Defends Dak Prescott: “The Best Leader I’ve Ever Been Around”

By: [Your Name] | February 9, 2026

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has long been a figure of controversy in the NFL, often facing criticism despite his consistent performances on the field. However, those who have worked closely with him—especially his teammates—are quick to defend him, emphasizing his leadership and integrity. Even players who have moved on to other teams continue to hold Prescott in high regard. One such player is Dalton Schultz, who spent five seasons with the Cowboys before joining the Houston Texans in 2023.

During a recent appearance on 105.3 The Fan, where he joined hosts Bobby Belt, Shan Shariff, and RJ Choppy for a conversation leading up to the Super Bowl, Schultz was asked about his former quarterback and what makes Prescott stand out as a leader. Schultz was visibly shocked by the continued criticism Prescott faces, especially considering how highly teammates speak of him.

Schultz Praises Prescott’s Leadership and Impact

“Dude, people don’t understand what a quarterback can do for a program when you have as much integrity and as much leadership as he does,” Schultz began. “Truly, galvanizing to an entire franchise. And, like, obviously, that will never truly come through unless you’ve been in a locker room with him.”

Schultz went on to describe how Prescott’s leadership and energy are contagious, noting that it’s something only those who’ve spent time with him can truly appreciate. “If you’ve been around him, if you’ve worked out with him, trained with him, if you’re around him for an extended period of time at all, it’s so clear to see. Like, his energy, his leadership is truly infectious.”

In Schultz’s eyes, Prescott is the best leader he’s ever been around, both on and off the field. The former Cowboys tight end also reflected on the consistency Prescott has demonstrated, saying that the quarterback’s ability to repeat high-level performances week after week speaks volumes about his leadership qualities.

Prescott’s Influence on Schultz’s Development

Schultz also took a moment to reflect on his own growth as a player, crediting Prescott with helping him develop into the player he is today. A fourth-round pick out of Stanford in 2018, Schultz was a relatively unheralded prospect when he entered the league. Over time, he earned the starting tight end role for the Cowboys, and much of that success, Schultz says, is thanks to Prescott’s unwavering support.

“Dak had faith in me before I learned to believe in myself,” Schultz said. “He’s too humble to take credit, but I wouldn’t be the player I am today without Dak.” Schultz went on to explain that Prescott’s belief in him played a pivotal role in his development, particularly when Schultz was still trying to find his place in the league. The trust and encouragement from Prescott allowed Schultz to grow into one of the more reliable tight ends in the NFL.

Schultz’s Impressive Career So Far

Since entering the league, Dalton Schultz has far exceeded expectations. In his eight seasons in the NFL, he has accumulated 405 receptions, 4,066 yards, and 27 touchdowns, numbers that have solidified his place as a starting tight end in the league. This success has come despite being drafted in the fourth round, and Schultz credits much of his progress to the leadership Prescott displayed during their time together.

As Schultz now continues his career with the Houston Texans, it’s clear that his time in Dallas under Prescott’s leadership left a lasting impression on him. Schultz’s admiration for Prescott speaks volumes about the quarterback’s role in shaping the culture of the Cowboys’ locker room.

The Impact of Prescott’s Leadership

In an era where quarterbacks are often judged solely by their statistics and playoff success, Dak Prescott’s true value as a leader and inspirational figure often goes unappreciated. While Prescott has been subject to criticism from fans and pundits alike, players like Dalton Schultz continue to underscore the importance of his leadership in helping to develop young talent and creating a cohesive team environment.

Prescott’s humility, work ethic, and dedication to his teammates are qualities that might not always make the headlines, but they are the foundation of his success and the reason why so many of his teammates continue to rally behind him.

Conclusion: Dak Prescott’s Legacy as a Leader

While Dak Prescott’s performance on the field will always be subject to scrutiny—especially given the high expectations that come with playing for the Dallas Cowboys—his leadership qualities and impact on the locker room are undeniable. Dalton Schultz’s comments reaffirm what many within the team have known all along: Prescott is a rare leader who has the ability to inspire and elevate those around him.

As the Dallas Cowboys look ahead to the future, they are fortunate to have a quarterback who not only excels on the field but also fosters a strong, positive culture within the team. Prescott’s legacy as a leader will likely outshine any criticism he faces, and Schultz’s praise only further solidifies his place as one of the most respected figures in the Cowboys’ locker room.