Dallas Cowboys 2021 draft: 3 backup quarterback prospects

As always, the quarterback position is an offseason focus for the Dallas Cowboys. This year more than most with the Cowboys finally inking their franchise passer, Dak Prescott, to a massive four-year, $160 million contract.

While Prescott’s status is unquestioned, his availability might be coming off a season where he was limited to just five games due to a severe ankle injury requiring two surgeries. And the fact the Cowboys lost their top-shelf backup quarterback in Andy Dalton to free agency, there’s seemingly an opening on the depth chart.

While many including myself believe 29-year old Garrett Gilbert deserves a legitimate shot at being the Cowboys’ primary backup in 2021 after getting his first NFL start last season, second-year passer Ben DiNucci’s lone start wasn’t as promising. So there’s certainly an opportunity to upgrade at the position.

Entering this week’s NFL draft, the Cowboys possess 10 total selections. It’s not hard to imagine one of those picks being a quarterback. Here are three potential passers Dallas might target in the later rounds of the annual collegiate selection event.

Kyle Trask, Florida

When it comes to Trask, the numbers are eyepopping. He racked up a whopping 68 touchdowns to only 15 interceptions over the past two seasons for the Gators. Obviously, Trask benefited from having one of the top college receiving targets and future NFL first-round pick, tight end Kyle Pitts, to throw to.

Having played under the same college coach, Dan Mullen, and scheme as Prescott would seemingly be a plus behind the scenes in Dallas. And like Dak, Trask comes into the NFL with accuracy concerns. But his overwhelming success over the past two years makes him a worthy candidate as a potential backup for America’s Team.

Kellen Mond, QB – Texas A&M

Mond leaves Texas A&M as the school’s all-time passing leader. He comes off a senior season having thrown for 2,282 yards, 19 touchdowns, and three interceptions in 10 games. Mond also rushed for 294 yards and four scores on the ground.

The former Aggie passer has a big arm and the mobility NFL teams now covet. The knocks on Mond including staring down receivers, being a bit of a gambler with his throws, and a lack of consistency in the pocket.

Still, being named MVP of the Senior Bowl certainly upped Mond’s stock and could even make him a borderline day two selection. If he falls to day three, the Cowboys could be a potential landing spot.

Sam Ehlinger, QB – Texas

In 10 games, Ehilnger threw for 2,566 yards, 26 touchdowns, and five picks as a senior for the Longhorns. A dual-threat passer, he also rushed for 377 yards and eight more scores. As a sophomore in 2018, Ehilnger rushed for an incredible 16 touchdowns on the ground.

Passing accuracy, ball placement, and timing are concerns. But Ehilnger seems to be similar to Prescott when it comes to leadership and gamesmanship. He also has the wheels to get him out of trouble which would come in handy if pressed into service early.