The NFL preseason serves as a crucial evaluation period for all teams, allowing them to assess key position battles and make informed strategic decisions. One such battle capturing attention this year is the Dallas Cowboys’ quest to solidify their backup quarterback position behind their steadfast starter, Dak Prescott.
Currently, the competition for the Cowboys' backup quarterback role is being fiercely contested by Cooper Rush and Trey Lance. Cooper Rush, a 30-year-old undrafted talent from Central Michigan, has been with the NFL since 2017. Known for his consistent performances, Rush has a commendable record, having stepped in for an injured Prescott during the 2021 and 2022 seasons and leading Dallas to victory in five of his six starts. Despite limited action this preseason, Rush completed 3 of 6 passes for 50 yards, showcasing his readiness.
On the other hand, Trey Lance, acquired from the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a fourth-round pick last year, is emerging as a promising contender. At 24 years old, Lance brings a different dynamic to the table. Drafted third overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Lance demonstrated his potential by throwing his first touchdown in Dallas’ preseason victory over the Raiders. His youth and talent make him a valuable asset for the future.
Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy and owner/general manager Jerry Jones have been closely monitoring this competition. McCarthy expressed his confidence in the depth the team possesses at the quarterback position. "I think just like anything, you play this all the way out. You can never have enough good quarterbacks, and we got three good ones. We're fortunate," McCarthy remarked, emphasizing the luxury of having multiple capable quarterbacks.
McCarthy is particularly impressed with Cooper Rush’s consistency and development during the camp. "Cooper is the same man every single day. He is super consistent. He is on top of his game. I think if you look at his snaps that he has had this year, definitely quality over quantity. That's by design with what we've got going on with Dak and Trey. This is clearly, in my time with him, his best camp. His decision-making has been on point. I think his footwork and some of the things he's done have been impressive," McCarthy said.
Jerry Jones echoed this sentiment, noting Rush’s impressive camp performance. "Cooper Rush is someone that I am real impressed with out here, too. He's had a great camp," Jones commented. Despite Rush's strong showing, Jones is also optimistic about Trey Lance’s future with the team. He praised Lance’s potential and development, stating, "I saw obvious improvement. That's promising because he does have a lot of improvement to have, but he's got all the tools. He's got the mettle. You saw that mettle clicking in and adjustments that he hadn’t made, let’s say as early as the week before. That's pretty promising the way he played out there Saturday."
Jones acknowledged the challenge of providing Lance with enough reps without impacting the roles of Prescott and Rush. "The issue is after preseason, how does he get his reps without something negative happening with Dak or, in this particular case, Cooper Rush?" he pondered. Despite this challenge, Jones confirmed Lance’s spot on the 53-man roster: "I'd like to see us really be able to have our quarterbacking depth. Specifically talking about No. 19 [Lance]. ... I'd like to see him get some more work in this weekend, that would be number one. Do I need to see any more from Trey Lance? The answer is yes, but he's going to be on the 53."
The Cowboys’ final preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers will provide another opportunity to evaluate both Rush and Lance further. As the team prepares for the regular season, the backup quarterback position remains a critical decision point for the Cowboys' coaching staff and management. With Prescott firmly in place as the starter, the Cowboys are fortunate to have two capable quarterbacks ready to step in if needed, setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead.