The Dallas Cowboys have a rich history of producing some of the most talented players in the NFL. With numerous accolades and titles to their name, it’s no surprise that the Cowboys have also produced their fair share of MVP winners. But who exactly has taken home the prestigious award? In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll dive deep into the MVP race in the Cowboys, exploring the players who have left their mark on the team and the league. From legendary quarterbacks to dynamic running backs, we’ll examine the factors that have contributed to their success and what makes them stand out among the rest. So, let’s get started and find out who the true MVPs of the Cowboys are!

The Criteria for Determining the MVP

Individual Performance

When determining the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the Dallas Cowboys, individual performance plays a significant role in the decision-making process. This section will analyze the key factors that are considered when evaluating a player’s individual performance, such as statistics and impact on the team’s success.

Statistics

One of the primary metrics used to determine a player’s individual performance is their statistical output. In the case of the Cowboys, some of the key statistics that are considered include:

• Passing yards: For quarterbacks, this is often the most important statistic as it indicates their ability to move the ball down the field.
• Rushing yards: For running backs, this statistic measures their ability to gain yardage on the ground and contribute to the team’s rushing attack.
• Receiving yards: For wide receivers, this statistic measures their ability to catch passes and contribute to the team’s passing attack.
• Tackles: For linebackers and defensive backs, this statistic measures their ability to make tackles and contribute to the team’s defense.
• Sacks: For defensive linemen and linebackers, this statistic measures their ability to get to the quarterback and disrupt the opposing team’s offense.

Impact on the team’s success

In addition to statistical output, a player’s impact on the team’s success is also considered when determining their individual performance. This includes factors such as:

• Game-changing plays: These are plays where a player makes a significant impact on the game’s outcome, such as a touchdown catch or an interception.
• Leadership: Players who demonstrate strong leadership qualities, such as motivating their teammates and providing guidance on the field, are often viewed as valuable assets to the team.
• Consistency: Players who consistently perform at a high level throughout the season are often viewed as more valuable than those who have flashes of brilliance but struggle with consistency.

Overall, individual performance is a crucial factor in determining the MVP of the Dallas Cowboys. Players who consistently produce statistically and have a significant impact on the team’s success are often viewed as the most valuable players on the roster.

Team Performance

Overall Record

When considering the overall record of the team, it is important to take into account not only the number of wins and losses, but also the strength of the opponents faced. A team that consistently defeats strong opponents can be seen as more valuable than a team with a higher win percentage against weaker opponents. In the case of the Cowboys, their overall record is a key factor in the MVP race, as it reflects the team’s overall success and the contributions of individual players.

Playoff Performance

Playoff performance is another important factor in determining the MVP of a team. In the case of the Cowboys, their performance in the playoffs can provide valuable insight into which players have consistently stepped up when it matters most. The impact of individual players on the team’s playoff success can be a significant factor in determining the MVP, as it demonstrates their ability to perform under pressure and make a difference in crucial moments.

The Candidates for the MVP Award

Quarterback Dak Prescott

Statistical achievements

Dak Prescott has had a remarkable season, showcasing his talent as a quarterback. He has completed 68.3% of his passes for 4,968 yards, 37 touchdowns, and just 12 interceptions. His passer rating of 104.0 is the second-highest of his career, and he has a QBR (Quarterback Rating) of 77.2, which ranks fifth in the NFL. Additionally, Prescott has a completion percentage of 68.3%, which is the third-highest in the league, and he has thrown for 4,968 yards, which ranks fifth. These statistics demonstrate Prescott’s consistent performance and his ability to make plays on the field.

Prescott’s impact on the Cowboys’ success this season cannot be overstated. He has led the team to a 12-4 record, which is the best in the NFC, and he has been instrumental in turning around a Cowboys team that struggled in the first half of the season. Prescott has been clutch in crucial moments, throwing for 300 yards or more in five games this season, including a 500-yard performance against the Detroit Lions. His leadership and ability to make plays under pressure have been critical to the Cowboys’ success.

Furthermore, Prescott’s contributions go beyond just his statistics. He has been a vocal leader on the field and has helped guide the Cowboys to victory in several close games. Prescott’s ability to rally his teammates and keep them focused has been a significant factor in the Cowboys’ success this season.

In conclusion, Dak Prescott has had a standout season and has been instrumental in the Cowboys’ success. His statistical achievements and impact on the team’s success make him a strong candidate for the MVP award.

Running Back Ezekiel Elliott

Ezekiel Elliott, the 22-year-old running back from the Dallas Cowboys, has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and performance throughout the season. With 222 carries for 1,052 yards and a respectable 4.2 yards per carry average, Elliott has showcased his ability to maintain a high level of productivity despite constant defensive attention. Additionally, he has found the end zone seven times, demonstrating his value as a goal-line threat. Elliott’s contributions in the passing game should not be overlooked, as he has caught 28 passes for 257 yards, showcasing his versatility and reliability as a key component of the Cowboys’ offense.

Elliott’s influence on the Cowboys’ success extends beyond his statistical achievements. His powerful running style and ability to break tackles have consistently moved the chains and sustained drives, allowing the Cowboys’ offense to control the tempo of games. Moreover, his presence in the backfield has opened up opportunities for other players, such as wide receiver Amari Cooper, who has thrived in the Cowboys’ offense this season. Elliott’s leadership and work ethic have also inspired his teammates, fostering a positive and productive team culture.

In light of his consistent performance and significant impact on the team’s success, it is clear that Elliott is a strong contender for the MVP award. His ability to generate yards on the ground and catch passes out of the backfield makes him a well-rounded threat, and his influence on the Cowboys’ offense is undeniable. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see if Elliott can maintain his momentum and solidify his position as a top MVP candidate.

Wide Receiver Amari Cooper

Amari Cooper has been a standout performer for the Dallas Cowboys this season. The wide receiver has recorded 92 receptions for 1,115 yards and six touchdowns. These numbers place him among the top wide receivers in the league, and his performance has been a key factor in the Cowboys’ success.

Cooper’s impact on the team has been significant. He has been a reliable target for quarterback Dak Prescott, and his ability to make big plays has opened up the field for other receivers and running backs. In addition, his leadership and work ethic have been an inspiration to his teammates, helping to create a positive and productive team culture.

Cooper’s performance has been particularly impressive given the challenges he has faced this season. He missed several games due to injury, but has continued to play at a high level upon his return. His ability to overcome adversity and continue to produce has been a testament to his talent and dedication.

Overall, Amari Cooper has been a strong candidate for the MVP award this season. His statistical achievements and impact on the team’s success make him a deserving contender for the honor.

Linebacker Jaylon Smith

Jaylon Smith has been a standout performer for the Cowboys this season. Throughout the course of the year, he has recorded 118 tackles, 5 sacks, and 3 interceptions. His ability to consistently make plays all over the field has made him a valuable asset to the Cowboys’ defense.

Smith’s impact on the team’s success cannot be overstated. He has been a leader on and off the field, consistently making big plays when they are needed most. His ability to consistently make tackles and disrupt the opposition’s offense has been a major factor in the Cowboys’ success this season.

Additionally, Smith’s presence on the field has allowed the Cowboys to be more aggressive in their defensive scheme, as they know they have a reliable player in Smith who can make plays and cover for any mistakes made by his teammates. This has allowed the Cowboys to take more risks and be more aggressive in their play-calling, which has contributed to their overall success this season.

Overall, Jaylon Smith has been a key contributor to the Cowboys’ success this season and deserves strong consideration for the MVP award. His statistical achievements and impact on the team’s success make him a strong candidate for the award.

Cornerback Byron Jones

Cornerback Byron Jones has been a standout player for the Dallas Cowboys this season. With his impressive skills and statistics, he has made a significant impact on the team’s success.

Jones has recorded 3 interceptions, 14 passes defended, and 63 tackles this season. He has also forced 2 fumbles and recovered 1 fumble. These statistics demonstrate his ability to make plays on the field and contribute to the team’s overall success.

Jones’ impact on the team goes beyond just his statistics. He has been a key player in the Cowboys’ defense, consistently making big plays and shutting down opposing offenses. His ability to cover wide receivers and disrupt passing plays has been a major factor in the team’s success this season.

Additionally, Jones’ leadership on the field has been invaluable to the Cowboys. He has been a vocal presence in the locker room and on the field, motivating his teammates and helping to maintain a positive atmosphere.

Overall, Byron Jones has been a crucial player for the Dallas Cowboys this season, and his contributions to the team’s success make him a strong candidate for the MVP award.

The Case for Dak Prescott as the MVP

Dak Prescott has had an impressive season, both in terms of his passing and rushing statistics. He currently ranks second in the league in passing yards, with 4,662 yards and 37 touchdowns. Prescott’s completion percentage is also impressive, as he has completed 68.1% of his passes this season. In addition to his passing stats, Prescott has also shown his ability as a runner, with 277 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.

Prescott’s contributions to the Cowboys’ success this season have been undeniable. The team is currently 12-4 and is a strong contender for the Super Bowl. Prescott has led the team to several come-from-behind victories this season, including a game-winning drive against the Philadelphia Eagles in which he threw for 45 yards on the final drive. His leadership on the field has been a driving force behind the team’s success.

Leadership on and off the Field

Prescott has also demonstrated his leadership off the field, particularly in his work with the community. He has been an advocate for social justice, and has used his platform to raise awareness for important issues. In addition, Prescott has been an active participant in the Cowboys’ community outreach programs, including the team’s annual Thanksgiving Day game. His leadership both on and off the field has been an inspiration to his teammates and to fans around the league.

The Case for Ezekiel Elliott as the MVP

Ezekiel Elliott has consistently demonstrated his value as a top-tier running back in the NFL. In his five seasons with the Cowboys, Elliott has averaged 977 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns per season. He has also caught 237 passes for 1,737 yards and an additional 12 touchdowns.

Elliott’s on-field performance has had a direct impact on the Cowboys’ success. In the four seasons he has played a full 16-game schedule, the Cowboys have won at least 10 games and made the playoffs three times. Elliott’s ability to consistently move the chains and control the clock has been a key factor in the team’s ability to win close games.

Elliott is not only a leader on the field, but also off the field. He has been a vocal advocate for social justice issues and has used his platform to raise awareness about important issues. Additionally, Elliott has been a mentor to his teammates, both on and off the field, and has helped to foster a positive culture within the Cowboys organization.

The Case for Amari Cooper as the MVP

Amari Cooper has had a remarkable season in terms of statistics. He currently leads the Cowboys in receiving yards with 1,115 yards and is second in the league in yards per reception with 16.5. He has also hauled in 7 touchdowns, displaying his ability to find the end zone when it matters most.

Cooper’s impact on the Cowboys’ success cannot be overstated. He has been a key contributor to the team’s passing attack, and his presence on the field has opened up opportunities for other receivers to make plays. In addition, his ability to make big plays in crucial moments has helped the Cowboys win games that they may not have otherwise.

Cooper is not only a leader on the field but also off the field. He has been an example of professionalism and work ethic for his teammates, consistently showing up to practice and games ready to give his best effort. He has also been a mentor to the younger players on the team, helping them develop their skills and improve their performances.

Overall, Amari Cooper’s statistical achievements, impact on the team’s success, and leadership both on and off the field make a strong case for him as the MVP of the Cowboys.

The Case for Jaylon Smith as the MVP

Jaylon Smith has had an impressive season in terms of statistics. He has recorded 109 tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 interceptions, which are all significant contributions to the team’s success. His tackle total ranks him 7th in the league among linebackers, and his sack total is tied for 4th among linebackers.

Smith’s impact on the team’s success cannot be overstated. He has been a key contributor to the Cowboys’ top-ranked defense, which has allowed the fewest points in the league. Smith’s ability to make tackles and disrupt plays has been a significant factor in the team’s success.

In addition, Smith has been instrumental in helping the Cowboys make the playoffs for the first time in five years. His leadership on and off the field has been a driving force behind the team’s success this season.

Smith has demonstrated his leadership both on and off the field. He has been a vocal leader in the locker room, and his work ethic and dedication have been an inspiration to his teammates. Off the field, Smith has been actively involved in the community, volunteering his time to help those in need.

Smith’s leadership has been particularly important this season, as the Cowboys have faced several challenges and adversity. His ability to rally the team and keep them focused has been a significant factor in their success.

Overall, Jaylon Smith has had an outstanding season and has been a key contributor to the Cowboys’ success. His statistical achievements, impact on the team’s success, and leadership on and off the field make him a strong candidate for the MVP award.

The Case for Byron Jones as the MVP

Byron Jones has had an outstanding season, showcasing his skills as a cornerback and punt returner. He leads the league in interceptions with 7, and has 18 passes defended, 5 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. His impressive numbers and impact on the field have been crucial to the Cowboys’ success.

Jones’ exceptional play has been a significant factor in the Cowboys’ 8-4 record, which has them in contention for a playoff spot. His ability to create turnovers and limit opposing offenses has been invaluable, particularly in close games. For example, in a Week 6 victory against the Washington Football Team, Jones had 2 interceptions, including one in overtime to set up the game-winning field goal.

In addition to his on-field performance, Jones has demonstrated strong leadership qualities. He has been a vocal leader in the locker room, helping to rally his teammates and provide encouragement when needed. He is also actively involved in the Dallas community, volunteering his time and resources to support local causes. Jones’ leadership both on and off the field has had a positive impact on the Cowboys’ culture and team dynamic.

Overall, Byron Jones’ outstanding play, impact on the team’s success, and leadership make a strong case for him as the MVP of the Cowboys.

The Verdict: Who Won the MVP for the Cowboys?

Analysis of the Candidates’ Performances

The Cowboys had several standout players this season, each of whom could have made a strong case for the MVP award. Here’s a closer look at the performances of the top candidates:

Dak Prescott

Dak Prescott had another impressive season as the Cowboys’ quarterback, throwing for 4,449 yards and 37 touchdowns while only throwing 10 interceptions. He also added 285 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. Prescott led the league in passing yards and touchdowns, and his completion percentage (72.9%) was the highest in the NFL.

Ezekiel Elliott

Ezekiel Elliott continued to be one of the most dominant running backs in the league, rushing for 1,487 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also caught 55 passes for 379 yards and three touchdowns. Elliott’s consistent production and ability to carry the offense at times made him a strong MVP candidate.

Amari Cooper

Amari Cooper had a breakout season after being traded to the Cowboys from the Raiders. He finished the year with 79 receptions for 1,189 yards and eight touchdowns. Cooper’s ability to make big plays and stretch the field made him a valuable target for Prescott and a key factor in the Cowboys’ offensive success.

Final Decision on the MVP Award Winner

After analyzing the performances of the top candidates, it’s clear that the MVP award could have gone to any of them. However, the final decision on the MVP award winner comes down to the most valuable player to the Cowboys’ success.

While Prescott had an impressive season and made a strong case for the MVP award, the Cowboys’ offense would not have been as successful without Elliott’s consistent production in the running game. Elliott’s ability to carry the offense at times and his value as a receiver out of the backfield make him a key factor in the Cowboys’ success.

Ultimately, the MVP award for the Cowboys should go to Ezekiel Elliott. His consistent production and ability to carry the offense at times made him the most valuable player to the Cowboys’ success this season.

FAQs

1. Who won the MVP for the Cowboys?

Answer:

The Dallas Cowboys have had several players win the MVP award throughout their history. However, in recent years, the MVP award for the Cowboys has been dominated by quarterback Dak Prescott. Prescott has been a key player for the Cowboys since he was drafted in 2016, and has consistently put up impressive numbers. In 2019, he was named the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year, and in 2020, he was once again named the NFC’s Offensive Player of the Month. While other players have had standout seasons for the Cowboys, Prescott’s consistent performance has made him the clear favorite for the MVP award.

2. Who are some other notable MVP winners for the Cowboys?

In addition to Dak Prescott, there have been several other notable players who have won the MVP award for the Cowboys. One of the most famous is Emmitt Smith, who won the award three times during his career with the team. Smith was a dominant running back who played for the Cowboys from 1990 to 2002, and is widely considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Other notable MVP winners for the Cowboys include quarterbacks Troy Aikman and Roger Staubach, as well as wide receiver Michael Irvin.

3. How is the MVP award determined for the Cowboys?

The MVP award for the Cowboys is determined by a vote of the media and the league’s coaches and players. At the end of each season, the media and the league’s coaches and players submit their votes for the player they believe had the most valuable performance for their team during the season. The player with the most votes is then named the MVP for that season. While the MVP award is not an exact science, it is widely considered to be one of the most prestigious individual awards in the NFL.

4. Can a player win the MVP award for the Cowboys in consecutive seasons?

While it is possible for a player to win the MVP award for the Cowboys in consecutive seasons, it is a rare occurrence. Only one player has won the MVP award for the Cowboys in consecutive seasons since the award was first given out in 1957. That player was Emmitt Smith, who won the award in 1993 and 1994. While other players have had multiple standout seasons for the Cowboys, winning the MVP award in consecutive seasons is a significant accomplishment that is only achieved by the most dominant players in the league.

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