Mike McCarthy and the Dallas Cowboys are expected to play Dak Prescott in their regular season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles. However, the decision did not sit well with some, including former NFL coach Rex Ryan.

In his latest appearance on ESPN ahead of the Cowboys-Eagles Week 18 showdown, Ryan issued a stern warning to McCarthy about playing Prescott in an already meaningless game. Dallas has already clinched the NFC East Division, and it's not like they are in the running for the top seed as the Green Bay Packers already secured that.

With that, Ryan noted that McCarthy could get fired if Prescott gets injured against the Eagles … right before the playoffs.

“If you get Dak Prescott hurt, you're gonna get fired today. You won't even get a flight home,” Ryan said of the Cowboys coach.

While a lot of fans want to see Dak Prescott play and finish off the season, Rex Ryan certainly raised a legitimate concern. Sure, there is the argument that the Cowboys QB need the game to build some momentum heading to the postseason, but there is no doubt there is a huge risk to it.

Are Mike McCarthy and the Cowboys really ready to take that risk?

Prescott is one of the most crucial pieces for the Cowboys if they wish to contend in the Super Bowl and they can't afford losing him at this point of the season. With that said, Dallas needs to protect him in any way they can.

I remains to be seen how much Prescott will play on Saturday, but McCarthy better be careful with the minutes and snaps he gives his prized signal-caller.