Cowboys left with obvious Trey Lance decision after Dak Prescott injury update

The Dallas Cowboys are officially a three-win team with the season essentially half over, and the injury to quarterback Dak Prescott made things a true nightmare. Either Cooper Rush or Trey Lance will be under center in the coming days after Prescott's solid day on the road was ruined by his health.

The Cowboys finished their loss against the Atlanta Falcons without Prescott, as he left due to a hamstring injury. Rush performed admirably in his stead, but he was unable to pull out a win in a loss that likely will keep Dallas out of the postseason.

Prescott has been ruled out for the next few games, which will likely move Rush into the starting role. Rush might be better right now, but the better long-term play for the organization would be turning to Lance.

The Cowboys have had precious few chances to put Lance on the field since acquiring him from the 49ers. Unless the Cowboys are ready to eat the cost and admit Lance will never become a professional quarterback, they need to see if the former North Dakota State star has anything left in the tank.

Cowboys must start Trey Lance at QB after Dak Prescott injury

Lance has had his fair share of lowlights in a Cowboys uniform during preseason action, including his five-interception game that did little to quell the concerns about his accuracy and his decision-making. Still, now is the time to throw him in the deep end of the pool.

The Cowboys would be better off bottoming out this season. Prescott's contract will make it imperative that Dallas drafts and develops young talent for cheap. If Lance works, great. If he doesn't the Cowboys could end up with a premium pick in what is a very interesting draft.

The running back class in 2025 is as deep as any class in the last few years, and there are a few wide receivers and pass rushers who can make an impact for Dallas. With Washington and Philadelphia running away with the division, the Cowboys should be focusing on what this team could look like in 2025.

Lance is never going to be a franchise quarterback, but now is the time for Dallas to see if they have a long-term backup for Prescott should this injury situation ever pop up again. If the answer is in the affirmative, they could have made the most out of this doomed campaign.

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