In the bustling world of NFL trades and team strategies, the Dallas Cowboys’ approach to Dak Prescott’s future raises eyebrows. As the final year of Prescott’s contract dawns without a sign of extension, the atmosphere is fraught with speculation and strategic gambits.
Prescott, ever the professional, has been vocal about his readiness to lead the team to victory, yet the franchise’s hesitation to secure his position long-term is palpable. Despite his commendable performance as an MVP runner-up, the Cowboys seem to be playing a waiting game.
It’s reasonable to expect that Prescott, with his impressive track record, would secure a lucrative long-term deal. However, the team’s actions—or lack thereof—suggest a different narrative might be unfolding behind the scenes.
Trey Lance From Third-String to Potential Starter?
Enter Trey Lance, the young quarterback acquired from the San Francisco 49ers. Initially, this move by Jerry Jones, made without the input of front-office personnel, appeared to be a questionable decision—sacrificing a day-two pick for a third-string quarterback with limited exposure. Yet, there may be more to this trade than meets the eye.
Reid Hanson of Cowboys Wire critiques the trade as poor value on the surface. However, he also notes the potential upside. The Cowboys could be nurturing Lance as a viable successor to Prescott, a strategy that might not be apparent immediately but could pay dividends if Prescott departs.
“By acquiring Lance in advance, the Cowboys have given themselves two seasons to assess and develop an option for life after Prescott. Since his development runs concurrently with Prescott’s time at the helm, they can theoretically hit the ground running if Prescott leaves in 2025,” Hanson explains.
Dallas Cowboys Risks and Rewards of Betting on Trey Lance
The allure of Trey Lance is not without its caveats. His stint in the NFL has been underwhelming due to injuries and limited playtime, which does not bode well for his readiness as a starter. Lance’s pedigree from North Dakota State, a school not known for its rigorous football schedule, further complicates his projection as a frontline quarterback.
You can see Dak Prescott confirming with the official that #71 declared as an eligible receiver.
Illegal formation penalty still thrown. Wiping away a touchdown. pic.twitter.com/8g2R6POTfW
— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) November 6, 2023
Yet, the Cowboys’ affection for Lance’s work ethic and personality might be laying the groundwork for a more significant role. If Prescott were to leave, Lance would be the in-house candidate familiar with the team’s playbook and dynamics.
However, considering Prescott’s stellar performance last season, leading the league in completions and touchdowns, the decision to shift to Lance carries considerable risk.
Dallas Cowboys Safer Bet Might Just Be to Stick with Dak Prescott
While the narrative of Lance potentially taking over is intriguing, the practicality of such a move is debatable. The Cowboys would do well to secure Prescott’s future at the helm. His proven ability to deliver results far outweighs the uncertain potential of an untested quarterback.
The unfolding drama between Prescott’s contract saga and Lance’s development will be a focal point for the Cowboys’ strategy. As the season progresses, the decisions made now will either pave the way for a smooth transition or set the stage for a more tumultuous shift in leadership. The coming months will be crucial in determining the trajectory of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.
