The Dallas Cowboys announced a significant roster move on Labor Day morning, revealing a decision that has sparked much discussion among fans and analysts alike.
The move concerns the backup quarterback position behind starter Dak Prescott, a closely watched battle throughout the offseason between Cooper Rush and Trey Lance.
It won’t be Trey Lance, the former third overall pick, who will back up Prescott. Instead, it will be veteran Cooper Rush, who joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent after the 2017 NFL draft.
Head coach Mike McCarthy made the announcement during his Monday morning press conference.
This decision has surprised some, given the contrasting paths Rush and Lance took to reach the NFL.
Lance, acquired from the San Francisco 49ers for a fourth-round pick in 2024, has shown glimpses of the talent that led to his high draft selection but has struggled with consistency, particularly during preseason games where turnovers have been a problem.
His struggles were evident in the preseason game against the Chargers, where he threw five interceptions.
On the other hand, Cooper Rush hasn’t seen much action in this year’s preseason, attempting only six passes across two games.
However, he brings a wealth of backup experience to the table, having stepped in for Prescott multiple times since joining the Cowboys.
Rush has started six games, winning his first five before narrowly losing to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022.
While Lance’s performance has fallen short of the expectations set before the draft, McCarthy stated that he is still “encouraged” by the quarterback’s development this preseason.
As the Cowboys prepare for their season opener against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, September 8th, at 4:25 p.m. ET, McCarthy and Cowboys fans alike probably hope they won’t have to see either Rush or Lance on the field, as Prescott remains the team’s clear leader.
