NFL training camp notepad: Cowboys’ drama meter is high as usual, but Dak Prescott’s future hangs over everything

Yahoo Sports Senior NFL Reporter Charles Robinson is out on the road covering training camps. Today’s stop: the Dallas Cowboys.

About the QB

I raised an eyebrow when Dak Prescott took a long pause Thursday, then said: “I’m gonna say it. I want to be here, but when you look [it] up, all the other quarterbacks that I watched played for other teams [than their first]. … That’s not something to fear.” Prescott paused because he knew he was revealing something. I think he’s revealing that he has already mentally walked through the paces of leaving Dallas.

Rookie to watch

Offensive tackle Tyler Guyton wasn’t starting the first day of practice, but that won’t last. He’ll be a starter before it’s over. Saying “watch the first-round rookie” isn’t revelatory, but if Guyton isn’t ready to protect Prescott by September, Dallas has a problem.

Keeping my eye on

Trey Lance, if only because there is still curiosity about him across the league and he’s going to get some good burn in preseason games. I don’t get the sense the Cowboys view him as a potential Dak Prescott replacement. It might take an injury forcing Lance into the lineup for that to change.

Fantasy thought

If you have to take a Cowboys running back, godspeed. Right now, Ezekiel Elliott will likely be the player in the rotation who gets the most snaps, particularly given his blocking ability. But the offensive line in Dallas is worse … not better.

What I saw that was interesting

Team owner Jerry Jones opening his media conference by answering a question about a paternity suit was … wild. Cowboys fans are probably used to this stuff by now, and let’s be real — plenty of owners have their share of dirty laundry. But you rarely, if ever, see them up on a podium talking about it like that, then rolling into football talk. Cowboys, baby.

Wild card

Getting 2023 first-round pick Mazi Smith turned in the right direction would be a big plus for Dallas. It looks like he has a long road ahead as he gets into shape and rebounds from offseason shoulder surgery. He looked heavy in practice and his conditioning had him lagging a few times at the end of plays. He is still needed on defense and the Cowboys aren’t giving up on a first-round pick after one poor season.