No, Dak Prescott's starting job isn't in jeopardy despite any disputes regarding a potential extension. The hypothetical battle I'm talking about would be between Cooper Rush and Trey Lance for the QB2 job. While Rush has had the role in a chokehold for the last few seasons, some Dallas fans believe that it's time for Lance to finally prove what he can do.
The good news for any Lance supporters out there is that the Cowboys reportedly have big plans for the former FCS Championship MVP.
Cowboys News: Trey Lance to Have Big Preseason Role
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy spoke to the media on Wednesday and Dallas Morning News' Michael Gehlken reported on a juicy detail. According to Gehlken, McCarthy is "very, very pleased" with how Lance has looked this offseason and it's at the point where the team wants him to be a "large part" of their preseason plans.
Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy said he has been “very, very pleased” with backup QB Trey Lance. “His athleticism is top notch.” McCarthy made a broad reference to change in throwing fundamentals. “You can see the improvement in his timing.” Will play “large part” of the preseason. pic.twitter.com/mOBUHLvVvO
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) May 22, 2024
McCarthy went on to describe Lance's athleticism as "top-notch" and that the fourth-year QB has improved both his timing and throwing ability.
Reading between the lines, it seems like McCarthy's staff plans to use Lance in the majority of their preseason games, which makes sense. Prescott hasn't suited up for an exhibition contest in five years while the Cowboys already know who Rush is at this point.
Meanwhile, Lance, who was acquired from the San Francisco 49ers last August, has barely seen any action since being drafted third overall in 2021. The former North Dakota State QB only played 262 offensive snaps across the 2021 and 2022 seasons with the 49ers, completing 56-of-102 passing attempts (54.9%) for 797 yards, five touchdowns, three interceptions, and an 84.5 passer rating.
Between his collegiate and NFL careers, Lance has only made 420 passing attempts since the start of 2018.
The Cowboys' contract situation also sheds some light on why they might want to feature the 24-year-old this August. Prescott is on the last year of his contract without an extension in sight, so you can't blame Dallas for wanting to give Lance a ton of preseason reps if McCarthy and Jerry Jones think there's even an inkling that he can become a franchise QB one day.
The good news is that Cowboys fans won't have to wait too long to see Lance in exhibition action. Dallas opens its preseason schedule with a road game against Sean McVay and the LA Rams on Sunday, Aug. 11.
