Why the Dak Prescott Autograph Scandal is a Big Deal
If it's true that Dallas Cowboy quarterback, Dak Prescott, used a machine to autograph at least some team memorabilia, the ripple effect could be huge for sports. And here's why.
Politicians have used auto-pens for years to sign documents, according to ESPN, but if Dak did the same thing with his autograph sports memorabilia as he's accused, it would be the first time a modern athlete has been caught in the act.
Most pro athletes have to sign affidavits when they turn over collector's merchandise to the big memorabilia companies, saying that the autographs are authentic. Fans want to know that the football or poster that they're holding was once touched by that athlete, and that the ink came out of a pen that the superstar's hand was holding. Finding out that a machine stamped it, or that an auto-pen was behind the deed can be a huge downer, and cheapens it. It's impersonal.
The experts are busy analyzing Dak's penstrokes now to see if they're genuine or stamped, and they're trying to decide what to do with the merchandise. And, at the same time, probably wondering if other athletes have also used an auto-pen to sign merchandise, instead of camping out by the TV for hours and signing away while binge-watching Game of Thrones.
Will this have an effect on Dak's season with the Cowboys? That remains to be seen. I'll still be wearing my #4 jersey and screaming at the TV for first downs and touchdowns right there with you other crazy Cowboy fans. No autographs necessary.
The Cowboys kick off their season September 10th against the Giants, and then we'll get back to the reason for all of this fuss in the first place. Football!