FRISCO - When the Dallas Cowboys and Dak Prescott have run into major injury obstacles over the last few seasons, there has always been a steady figure in place. Cooper Rush has held that post in recent seasons, providing relief when the starter has gone down in three of the last five seasons.
Now it is no secret that Rush was no game breaker himself, but his familiarity with the offense and poise at the position helped keep the Cowboys afloat when their leader missed time.
As of Sunday, the Cowboys no longer have that same luxury. Rush has signed with the Baltimore Ravens, taking on that same role behind two-time league MVP Lamar Jackson.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4). Candice Ward-Imagn Images Candice Ward-Imagn Images
Prescott had a short yet heartfelt message for Rush that he posted on his Instagram story following the news: "Thank you brother," he wrote.
With the abundance of upgrades necessary across the roster, quarterback is seemingly an afterthought. However, evidence of the last few seasons suggest the Cowboys should hold it in higher regard as they approach the remainder of the offseason.
Prescott has sustained multiple season-ending injuries to his lower body over the last five seasons and another to his throwing hand that saw him miss time in another.
The Cowboys' leader has not earned the ridiculous "injury prone" moniker just yet, but there is reason to be cautious when it comes to Prescott's health.
Early signs point to this next backup being a younger player.
"You're always wanting to have a young guy coming, that's always a preference, and certainly that's something we'll look at in the draft is to see if there's a young guy to start bringing along," Stephen Jones said at the NFL Scouting Combine a few weeks ago.
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"Obviously we were focused on Trey [Lance] there when we traded for him and he was our young guy if you will, that we were bringing along."
The Cowboys could also target a veteran player and have a known commodity enlisted behind Prescott. Should they go that route, they have options available there as well.
Regardless, as the 2025 roster continues to take shape, there should be at least a quiet urgency to solidify some insurance at the quarterback spot. No one wants to assume any hindrance for Prescott as he makes his return to the field, but the Cowboys must have a plan in place.
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This story was originally published March 17, 2025 at 2:53 PM.