When QB Tony Romo went down with an injury, the Dallas Cowboys were looking for answers at the quarterback position.

Many had assumed former high-draft pick Mark Sanchez would get the call as the starter. However, a fourth-round pick out of Mississippi State not only grabbed the starting job, but thrived in a big way.

Dak Prescott was recognized as the 2016 Offensive Rookie of the Year by the NFL on Saturday. The 6-foot-2 gunslinger threw for 3,667 yards and 23 touchdowns as a first-year player. He also rushed for six touchdowns, completed passes at a 67.8-percent clip, and threw only four interceptions.

No one ever expected Prescott to perform in the manner in which he did. Dallas has been known recently for having a volatile and inconsistent franchise. In one year, Prescott — along with RB Ezekiel Elliott — has helped to stabilize things considerably.

Outside of his brilliance on the field, Prescott’s maturity and high character has truly aided in transforming the locker room dynamic.

His future appears to be immensely bright, and the Cowboys’ faithful have to be thrilled at the prospect of this quality individual leading their team into next season.