The Dallas Cowboys’ Quarterback Conundrum: A New Era on the Horizon
The NFL offseason is always a time of speculation and anticipation, and the Dallas Cowboys are no exception. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Cowboys are signaling a significant shift in their quarterback strategy. With Dak Prescott firmly entrenched as the team’s starter, the franchise is exploring options to bolster its depth and potentially groom a future successor. Owner Jerry Jones has been vocal about the team’s intention to draft a quarterback, marking a proactive approach to addressing both current needs and long-term goals.
The Current State of the Cowboys’ Quarterback Room
As of now, Dak Prescott is the only quarterback under contract for the Dallas Cowboys. The team’s backup situation is up in the air, with both Cooper Rush and Trey Lance set to become free agents at the start of the new league year. While Rush has proven himself to be a reliable backup, throwing 12 touchdowns and just five interceptions in eight games last season, the Cowboys may face competition to retain his services. On the other hand, Trey Lance, who was acquired via a trade for a fourth-round pick, is unlikely to return. Lance has expressed his desire to compete for a starting role—a opportunity he won’t have in Dallas with Prescott at the helm.
Even if the Cowboys manage to re-sign Rush, the team will still need to add another quarterback to the roster. This creates a clear mandate for the franchise: the 2025 NFL Draft must address the quarterback position, whether it’s to find a developmental prospect or a long-term solution.
Jerry Jones’ Vision for the Future
Jerry Jones has been candid about the Cowboys’ draft strategy, revealing that drafting a young quarterback is “one of our goals” for this offseason. Speaking to The Dallas Morning News, Jones emphasized the importance of identifying and developing quarterback talent, a challenge he acknowledged is fraught with uncertainty. “You know, I think one of our goals is to get a young quarterback in the draft,” Jones said. “I don’t know where that’s going to be. That’s why we gave a [fourth-round pick] for Trey. It seems like all the quarterbacks, even guys we have in the fourth round, go in the first. They always go so much higher than what you think.”
Jones’ comments highlight the unpredictability of the NFL Draft, particularly when it comes to quarterbacks. The Cowboys’ experience with Trey Lance serves as a reminder of how high the stakes are when evaluating and acquiring quarterback talent. Despite the risks, Jones remains committed to finding a young quarterback who can grow with the team and eventually step into a leadership role.
Cooper Rush and the Free Agency Factor
Cooper Rush has been a steady presence in the Cowboys’ quarterback room, providing crucial depth behind Dak Prescott. His chemistry with the team and his ability to perform under pressure make him an attractive option for retention. However, Rush’s success in relief of Prescott last season is likely to generate interest from other teams in free agency. If Rush departs, the Cowboys will need to find not one but two quarterbacks—one to serve as a backup and another to develop for the future.
Rush’s situation underscores the importance of the 2025 Draft. Even if the Cowboys manage to re-sign him, they will still need to add a young quarterback to their roster. This dual need makes it plausible that the team could use multiple draft picks on the position, ensuring both short-term stability and long-term sustainability.
Tyler Shough and the Cowboys’ Draft Options
As the draft approaches, the Cowboys have been linked to several quarterback prospects, including Louisville’s Tyler Shough. A 6’5", 225-pound signal-caller, Shough brings an impressive combination of size, arm strength, and athleticism to the table. In 2024, he led Louisville to a 9-4 record, throwing for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and six interceptions. While Shough’s production and physical tools are intriguing, his age could be a concern. At 25 years old, he is already older than many of the top quarterback prospects in the 2025 class, including Drake Maye, CJ Stroud, and Bryce Young.
Despite his advanced age, Shough’s experience and maturity could make him a valuable asset for a team like the Cowboys. According to a mock draft by USA Today’s KD Drummond, Dallas could target Shough in the sixth round, where his size and production make him a compelling late-round pick. With 10 picks in the 2025 Draft, the Cowboys have ample opportunities to address their quarterback needs, whether it’s through selecting Shough or another prospect.
Looking Ahead: The Cowboys’ Long-Term Vision
The 2025 NFL Draft represents a critical opportunity for the Dallas Cowboys to reshape their quarterback room and lay the foundation for future success. While Dak Prescott remains the unquestioned starter, the franchise is taking proactive steps to ensure that the position is well-stocked both in the short term and long term. Whether it’s through drafting a young quarterback like Tyler Shough or adding a developmental prospect later in the draft, the Cowboys are signaling a commitment to sustainability at the most important position in football.
Jerry Jones’ comments and the team’s actions this offseason suggest a clear vision: the Cowboys are not just building for 2025 but for the years to come. As the NFL continues to evolve, having a strong quarterback foundation will be key to competing for championships. For now, all eyes are on the draft, where the Cowboys will have their chance to make a significant impact on their quarterback future.