As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for the 2025 NFL season, one thing is clear: the quarterback room could see significant changes. While Dak Prescott remains the team’s franchise quarterback, his injury-plagued 2024 season and the uncertain futures of backups Cooper Rush and Trey Lance have created plenty of intrigue about what the Cowboys’ QB depth chart might look like next year.
Dak Prescott: The Unquestioned Starter—If Healthy
Prescott’s place as Dallas’ starting quarterback isn’t in doubt—if he’s healthy. However, 2024 proved to be a challenging year for the veteran signal-caller, with a nagging hamstring injury sidelining him for significant stretches. Prescott’s health will be the linchpin for Dallas’ success in 2025, but the Cowboys must prepare for the worst-case scenario.
Cooper Rush: Solid, Dependable, and Likely on the Move?
Cooper Rush has been a steady hand for Dallas, stepping in whenever Prescott has been unavailable. His performance in 2024 was no exception, as he kept the Cowboys afloat despite a rocky start to the season. But with Rush’s two-year, $5 million contract set to expire, his future in Dallas is uncertain.
CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin predicts Rush will sign with the Carolina Panthers as a backup to Bryce Young. Such a move would make sense, as Rush’s 2024 performances may have increased his value, potentially pricing him out of Dallas’ plans. Teams looking for a reliable backup with starting experience could view him as a bargain.
Trey Lance: The Wild Card
Trey Lance, acquired in a trade with the San Francisco 49ers, remains an enigma in Dallas. Despite being a former top-three draft pick, Lance hasn’t had many opportunities to showcase his abilities with the Cowboys. His limited playing time in 2024 leaves questions about whether Dallas sees him as a viable backup or a project still in development.
With Lance under contract through 2025, the Cowboys may give him a more prominent role in the offseason to evaluate his potential. If he shows improvement, Lance could solidify his position as Prescott’s backup or even generate trade interest.
The Free Agency Puzzle
Should Rush leave for another team, Dallas will need to address its backup quarterback situation. The Cowboys could explore free agency, targeting a veteran who can step in as a reliable second option behind Prescott. Alternatively, they might look to the draft to develop a young quarterback to groom for the future.
What’s Next for Dallas?
The Cowboys’ quarterback situation highlights a critical offseason decision for the team:
- Re-sign Cooper Rush or let him walk? Rush’s solid play has undoubtedly earned him attention from other teams, and Dallas will need to weigh his value against the cost of retaining him.
- Develop Trey Lance or seek a new backup? Lance’s potential remains untapped, but the Cowboys must decide whether he’s ready to take on a larger role.
- Plan for the future: With Prescott entering his 30s and injuries starting to pile up, Dallas must start thinking about succession planning at the quarterback position.
Prediction: A New Look for 2025
If Cooper Rush departs in free agency, expect the Cowboys to turn to Trey Lance as Prescott’s backup while also exploring other options in the market or draft. Regardless of the decisions made, Dallas must ensure it has a stable and capable quarterback room to remain competitive in the NFC.
The 2025 season could mark a turning point for the Cowboys, with a restructured quarterback lineup and a renewed focus on depth and development. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office to see how they navigate this pivotal moment.
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