A signature authenticator has accused Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott of using a machine to sign his autograph on cards being sold by a memorabilia company to collectors. Based on a report by Darren Rovell of ESPN, Steve Grad, the principal authenticator of Beckett Grading Services, said Prescott’s signature on five cards from the Panini 2016 Prizm set “had a very machine-like feel.” Grad said he immediately knew that an autopen was used to sign the card as he can “see the starts and stops.” The authenticator said this was the first time he heard an athlete doing this, instead of signing the items himself.
Memorabilia company involved in earlier controversy
Rovell said this was not the first time that Panini has been involved in controversy. In May, the Beckett Grading Services also discovered that the signatures on Atlanta Falcons linebacker Takkarist McKinley’s cards did not belong to the 2017 first-round pick. According to Rovell, Prescott could not be directly blamed for the controversy as it is possible that the quarterback never saw the cards, saying that blank labels and even cards to be signed are usually sent to marketing agents first.
Fans expect another banner year from Prescott
A lot is expected from the 23-year-old Prescott, who surprised everyone in his rookie season after throwing for 3,667 yards, 23 touchdowns with just four interceptions and running for yards and six scores.
Despite his inexperience, Prescott steered the Cowboys to an NFC-best 13-3 record and a first-round bye. However, they lost to the more experienced Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers in the Divisional Round.
With his newfound fame, Prescott cashed in on the opportunity, signing various promotions and marketing deals. According to Kate Hairopoulos of the Dallas Morning News, Prescott signed several endorsement deals in the offseason, including Nicholas Air, Welch's Fruit Snacks, Adidas, Pepsi, Tostitos and Campbell's Chunky Soup.
Cowboys linebacker arrested for aggravated assault
Meanwhile, authorities have arrested linebacker Damien Wilson on two counts of felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after brandishing a rifle at a man while parking. Per NFL.com, the Frisco (Texas) Police Department said the incident occurred at the Toyota Stadium parking lot during a Freedom Fest event in Frisco around 8 p.m.
The police report indicated hat Wilson backed his truck into a woman while parking at the stadium before brandishing a rifle at a man. The 24-year-old Wilson was released on a $20,000 bond while the case remains under investigation. The Cowboys were aware of the incident, saying they have no comment at this time.
