“Cowboys’ QB Battle: Will Cooper Rush or Trey Lance Secure the Backup Role Behind Dak Prescott?”
The Dallas Cowboys face a tough decision in choosing Dak Prescott’s backup for the upcoming season, with both Cooper Rush and Trey Lance competing for the spot.
Lance has seen the most action during preseason games, completing 40 of 64 passes for 339 yards, with two touchdowns (one passing and one rushing), but also throwing an interception.
Rush, on the other hand, has only thrown six passes this preseason, but the Cowboys have been closely observing his performance during training camp.
Head coach Mike McCarthy commented on August 21st that the team is taking their time with the decision, noting, “You can never have enough good quarterbacks, and we have three good ones. We’re fortunate.”
Cooper Rush has had a “super consistent” camp with the Cowboys. Having been with the team since 2017, Rush stepped in during 2022 when Prescott was sidelined with a thumb injury, leading to a 4-1 record as a starter. The Cowboys appreciate the steadiness Rush brings, with McCarthy praising his consistency and decision-making during camp.
Meanwhile, Trey Lance is guaranteed a spot on the 53-man roster, according to owner Jerry Jones. Acquired in a trade with the San Francisco 49ers, Lance, a former No. 3 overall pick, is seen as having significant potential. Jones expressed his desire to see Lance get more playing time and affirmed that Lance will remain on the roster.
This could put Rush in a precarious position if the Cowboys decide to keep only two quarterbacks on the active roster. While releasing Rush would be a risk, the Cowboys may hope to retain him on the practice squad if he’s not picked up by another team.
The team hopes to avoid any issues with the backup QB during the regular season, as Prescott has mostly remained healthy over his eight-year career, and the focus is on keeping him available, especially with an important contract year ahead.