Dak Prescott Criticizes Cowboys’ Choice of Post Malone for Halftime — Calls It an “Absolute Disgrace”?
What Happened

The controversy began when the Dallas Cowboys announced Post Malone as the headline performer for their Thanksgiving halftime show. The team confirmed the news on their official site, promoting the performance as part of the annual Red Kettle Kickoff supporting The Salvation Army. (dallascowboys.com)

In reaction, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott reportedly called the choice an “absolute disgrace,” sparking a firestorm among fans. Some fans back him; others believe his response may have gone too far.

Why Dak Prescott Is Upset

For Dak, the halftime show is more than just entertainment — it’s tradition rooted in the identity of the Cowboys. Malone, while a Dallas native and longtime Cowboys fan, represents a very different musical style. (Yahoo)

Prescott previously expressed his admiration for Malone’s music, particularly his 2024 country-leaning album F-1 Trillion. (Dallas News) But his recent criticism suggests deeper frustration: he believes that selecting an artist who blends hip-hop, rock, and country undermines the team’s tradition and perhaps the spirit of the Thanksgiving show.

Fans Rally — And Push Back

A number of Cowboys fans are siding with Prescott. Many argue that the halftime show should reflect the team’s heritage and resonate more deeply with the audience. They see Malone’s performance as too mainstream, too pop — not “authentic Cowboys.”

On the other hand, some fans defend the decision. They highlight Malone’s genuine connection to the Cowboys (he grew up in Texas and has long professed his fandom) (Yahoo) and argue that his genre-blending style could make the halftime show more dynamic and inclusive.

Legacy vs. Innovation

This conflict highlights a broader tension: tradition versus evolution. The Cowboys’ Thanksgiving halftime show has featured major artists, often country or pop, tied into Texas heritage. (SI)

Prescott’s criticism reflects a desire to preserve that legacy — a halftime performance that honors the team’s roots and the emotional weight of Thanksgiving in football. Meanwhile, supporters of Malone’s booking argue that the entertainment landscape has shifted, and embracing cross-genre artists could help the Cowboys reach new, younger audiences.

Was Prescott Out of Line?

Arguments for Dak:

• His concerns are rooted in tradition and identity.

• As a team leader, he may feel that halftime performances should reflect what the franchise represents to its fans.

• He’s been open about his support for Malone in the past — so his criticism might be less personal and more principled.

  

Arguments against Dak:

• Publicly calling out a halftime performer can come off as disrespectful or divisive.

• Malone has real ties to the Cowboys, and his selection could energize a broader fan base.

• The show is also a charity event (Red Kettle Campaign), and limiting artists could reduce its appeal and reach.

What This Means for the Cowboys

If Prescott’s criticisms gain enough traction, the Cowboys could face pressure to rethink future halftime bookings. This moment could force the organization to weigh whether tradition should come first — or whether innovation and diversity matter more in 2025.

It also highlights how NFL teams, players, and fans are increasingly vocal about brand identity. For Prescott, this isn’t just about music: it’s about what the Cowboys stand for — especially on one of their biggest televised days of the year.

My Take

I can understand where Dak Prescott is coming from. The Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving halftime show is a deeply-rooted tradition, and choosing Malone — whose sound spans hip-hop, pop, and country — may feel like a departure from that legacy. Prescott’s frustration may reflect worries that the team is straying too far from what many fans love.

That said, calling it an “absolute disgrace” might be overly harsh. Post Malone is a genuine Cowboy fan, and his star power is enormous. His performance could bring more eyes — and donations — to the Red Kettle Campaign, which is a major charitable event.

Ultimately, the criticism is valid from a tradition standpoint, but the decision to book Malone is defendable from a modern entertainment and fundraising perspective.