Quarterback Competition Heats Up for Dallas Cowboys: Rush vs. Lance
As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for the 2024 NFL season, all eyes are on their quarterback roster. The preseason serves as a critical period for the Cowboys to assess their talent, and this year, the backup quarterback position is fiercely contested. Incumbent Cooper Rush and newcomer Trey Lance are the primary contenders vying for the spot behind starting quarterback Dak Prescott.
The Proven Backup: Cooper Rush
Cooper Rush, a 30-year-old undrafted quarterback from Central Michigan, has established himself as a reliable backup since joining the NFL in 2017. Rush's impact was notably felt during the 2021 and 2022 seasons when he successfully led the Cowboys to five victories in six starts while Prescott was sidelined with injuries. This preseason, Rush completed 3 of 6 passes for 50 yards, showing flashes of the consistency that head coach Mike McCarthy values.
"Cooper is the same man every single day. He is super consistent. He is on top of his game," McCarthy said. "I think if you look at his snaps that he has had this year, definitely quality over quantity."
Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones also holds Rush in high regard, praising his performance during training camp. "Cooper Rush is someone that I am real impressed with out here, too. He's had a great camp," Jones stated.
The Young Challenger: Trey Lance
Contrasting Rush's experience is Trey Lance, the third overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Acquired from the San Francisco 49ers last year for a fourth-round pick, the 24-year-old Lance brings a wealth of potential to the table. Lance showcased some of that promise by throwing his first touchdown in Dallas' preseason victory over the Raiders.
Jones remains optimistic about Lance's development. "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," Jones elaborated. The owner further emphasized the importance of providing Lance with additional opportunities to grow. "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 Strategic Decision
Given the importance of the quarterback position, the Cowboys recognize the value of depth. With Prescott firmly established as the starter, having reliable backup options in Rush and Lance is critical for the team's success. "You can never have enough good quarterbacks, and we got three good ones. We're fortunate," McCarthy remarked, underlining the importance of the competition.
While the preseason provides a platform for evaluation, the challenge remains in ensuring both backups receive adequate reps without impacting the team’s dynamics. Jones highlighted this conundrum, stating, "The issue is after preseason, how does he get his reps without something negative happening with Dak or, in this particular case, Cooper Rush?"
Final Preparations
As the Cowboys approach their final preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers, the coaching staff will closely monitor both Rush and Lance. McCarthy has already noted that this year's camp has been Rush's best, with impressive decision-making and footwork. Lance, on the other hand, continues to exhibit promising signs of growth and adaptation.
The outcome of the competition between Rush and Lance will significantly shape the Cowboys’ quarterback depth chart for the upcoming season. One thing remains certain: regardless of who secures the backup role, the Cowboys are well-prepared with a solid trio of quarterbacks ready to support their ambitions.