The recent major contract extension for Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, which granted him nearly everything he desired from the team, was a significant highlight at The Star this week. However, another important issue to consider is the future of the Cowboys’ quarterback depth, particularly with Trey Lance.
Lance was acquired last August when the Cowboys traded a fourth-round pick to the 49ers. Initially, he was seen as a potential bargaining chip in Prescott’s contract negotiations, especially after Prescott’s underwhelming 2022 season. Prescott, however, had a stellar 2023 season, leading the NFL in passing yards, guiding the Cowboys to a 12-5 record, and finishing as a runner-up for the NFL MVP.
Despite numerous opportunities this summer, it became clear that Lance, the 2021 No. 3 overall pick, is not a viable long-term replacement for Prescott. This realization partly explains why the Cowboys had to meet Prescott’s contract demands.
Lance not only failed to challenge Prescott effectively but also did not surpass Cooper Rush as the backup quarterback. However, the Cowboys could still benefit from trading Lance, particularly given the Dolphins’ potential need for a quarterback.
The Dolphins, despite having a strong offensive roster, might be pushed to seek a new quarterback due to Tua Tagovailoa’s recent injury, which could be his third concussion and may lead him to consider retirement.
Among potential replacements for Tagovailoa, Lance offers considerable upside. He also has a connection to Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, who was the 49ers’ run game coordinator when Lance was drafted in 2021.
CBS Sports highlighted Lance as a possible target, noting that McDaniel might adapt the offense to leverage Lance’s running skills, and Lance might not command a high trade price.
For the Cowboys, Lance has limited utility beyond his $5.3 million contract, which is set to expire soon. They chose not to exercise his fifth-year option last winter, and he has yet to play a regular-season game for Dallas.
Lance’s record includes starting four games with a 2-2 record, with his best performance in Week 16 of the 2021 season, where he threw for 249 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception in a win over Houston. He started the first two games of the 2022 season for the 49ers before getting injured and has struggled to stay on the field consistently since then.
