The Dallas Cowboys are feeling optimistic about their quarterback situation heading into the 2024 season with Dak Prescott, Cooper Rush, and Trey Lance on their roster. However, beyond this season, the team is less optimistic about their quarterback situation as all three quarterbacks are free agents in 2025.
Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones stated that Prescott is a priority in terms of his contract negotiations and that they will also be considering their options with Trey Lance. The team views Cooper Rush as a strong backup option. However, decisions on their future with the team will depend on how things play out with Prescott’s contract negotiations.
While the Cowboys have expressed interest in reaching a deal with Prescott this offseason or during the 2024 season, they currently have no urgency to do so. Prescott’s high cap number for the upcoming season has limited their activity in free agency. If Prescott does not sign an extension and becomes a free agent in 2025, the team will still be burdened with significant dead money against their salary cap.
Prescott holds significant leverage in contract negotiations due to his previous franchise tags and the lucrative deal he signed in 2021. He has clauses in his contract that prevent the team from tagging or trading him without his consent. Trey Lance, acquired from the 49ers last season, will be competing with Cooper Rush for the backup quarterback role after not playing in his rookie season. Lance’s performance in the offseason and preseason will be crucial for his future with the team.
In conclusion, while the Cowboys are confident about their quarterback situation heading into the 2024 season, they are less optimistic about it beyond this season as all three quarterbacks are free agents in 2025. Decisions on their future with these players will depend on how things play out with Prescott’s contract negotiations and Lance’s performance during training camp and preseason games next year.