SOUTHLAKE, Texas — When the Dallas Cowboys head to training camp in Oxnard, California, on July 20, Dak Prescott will be ready for all activities.
“I’m as healthy as I can be,” Prescott stated during his free football camp in Southlake, Texas, on Tuesday. “I’ll be fully ready for camp. I’m healthy. I think I’ll probably get the official approval from the doctor soon, but I feel good.”
During the offseason program, Prescott participated in all the on-field drills after missing the last nine games of last season due to a hamstring injury that needed surgery. He did not show any signs of the injury during the offseason program, although some movements were intentionally limited.
A few weeks back, Prescott organized his yearly retreat with his skill players, returning to Lake Oconee in Georgia for a few days filled with practice and off-field activities with O2X. This performance group, made up of former military members, focuses on stress management and building resilience.
“It was one of the most helpful trips I’ve ever taken,” Prescott shared.
One reason for this might be the chance to spend more time with George Pickens, who joined the team after being traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers in May. CeeDee Lamb also attended; he wasn’t around last year due to a contract dispute.
“Being the person who gets to throw them the ball is incredibly exciting because you can watch OTA videos where one guy has the ball in the air while the other is already celebrating,” Prescott explained. “We just need to keep developing that connection and ensure it’s heading in a positive direction.”
The retreat allowed Prescott and Pickens to bond off the field. Prescott was impressed by how much Pickens remembered from his time at Mississippi State.
“That understanding and involvement really shows that he is passionate about football, and for me, it clears up a lot of the negative things people said about him in the past,” Prescott explained. “He’s a great guy who cares about his teammates and is super excited for this season. I know he feels that way, and he’s thrilled to be in a new situation and eager to contribute to our team.”
Regarding Lamb, Prescott noted that their comfort level now is nothing like last offseason when the receiver missed the training program and only signed his new contract at the end of camp.
“You have to give credit to our recent trip for helping, but also to this offseason where there were no contract talks,” Prescott mentioned. “He even hinted in some discussions about how much better everything feels now. It’s all part of the business. Last year, nothing was personal; he just wanted to be engaged. Now you can see how it’s affecting him—his energy, leadership, and growth.”
