Dallas Cowboys face backlash after Cooper Rush’s departure to Ravens
The Dallas Cowboys made a significant decision this offseason, opting to shake up their backup quarterback situation. This choice has already begun to bear consequences as Cooper Rush, once a reliable backup in Dallas, has signed with the Baltimore Ravens. With Lamar Jackson sidelined due to a hamstring injury, the Ravens have turned to Rush as their starter in Week 5.
Impact on the Cowboys’ Quarterback Depth
While the Cowboys currently have Dak Prescott healthy and under center, the situation raises concerns about the team’s depth at the quarterback position. In the event Prescott were to miss time, Dallas would now rely on Joe Milton, acquired through a trade with the New England Patriots. Milton, a sixth-round pick entering the second year of his contract, offers a more cost-effective option compared to Rush.
The Decision to Part Ways with Rush
The question lingers: why did the Cowboys allow Cooper Rush to leave for Baltimore? The answer lies in contract negotiations. Rush was due for a new deal this offseason, but the Cowboys opted against offering him a competitive contract. Instead, he inked a two-year, $12.2 million agreement with the Ravens, which reflects both his value and the Cowboys’ decision to cut costs.
Cost Considerations for Dallas
By choosing Milton over Rush, Dallas has prioritized financial flexibility. Milton’s contract is significantly cheaper, allowing the Cowboys to allocate resources elsewhere. Yet, this decision has drawn criticism, especially with the unpredictability surrounding quarterback injuries.
As Rush steps into the starting role for the Ravens, the Cowboys may soon find themselves questioning the wisdom of their backup quarterback strategy. The early-season consequences of this choice are becoming increasingly evident as the season unfolds.