The Dallas Cowboys are preparing to continue their season without starting quarterback Dak Prescott, who sustained a hamstring injury during the team’s Week 9 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. With Prescott out, backup quarterback Cooper Rush stepped in and is expected to start in Prescott’s absence. However, some are urging the Cowboys to give a different quarterback a shot: Trey Lance. Former Cowboys scout Bryan Broaddus has suggested that Dallas should consider starting Lance over Rush, arguing that Lance’s athleticism and mobility could bring a needed spark to the offense.
Broaddus laid out his perspective during a November 3, 2024 interview with Bleacher Report’s Voch Lombardi. “I know everyone’s saying, ‘Come on, Bryan, don’t give up,’” he noted. “But I just don’t think things are going to improve. I’m proposing a shift to try something different offensively with Dak out—maybe use some read-option plays and give defenses something new to prepare for.” Broaddus pointed out that the Cowboys’ offense had been struggling to find consistency even with Prescott, and Rush might not be able to change that trend.
Dallas’s decision regarding Lance has added significance because Lance’s future with the team remains uncertain. The Cowboys traded a fourth-round pick to acquire him, and with his rookie contract expiring after this season, his future in Dallas is unclear. If the Cowboys want to evaluate Lance as a potential long-term investment, giving him game experience while Prescott recovers could provide valuable insight. Meanwhile, the Cowboys already view Rush as a reliable backup, meaning his future role is more predictable.
Reports indicate that Prescott’s injury is more severe than initially thought, potentially sidelining him for several weeks. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed on November 4 that Prescott could be out longer than expected and that the team is considering placing him on Injured Reserve (IR), which would require him to miss at least four games. This move would also free up a roster spot, highlighting the importance of Dallas’s next decision on the quarterback situation.
Dallas faces a critical stretch, and with Prescott potentially sidelined for several games, the team’s approach to handling the quarterback situation will play a significant role in their efforts to salvage the season. Broaddus believes Lance’s versatility might be the boost the offense needs, especially if they are looking toward the future and assessing the potential of their roster’s young talent.
