In a strategic move ahead of their Week 18 matchup against the Washington Commanders, the Dallas Cowboys have announced that quarterback Trey Lance will receive significant playing time. This decision marks Lance’s most substantial opportunity since joining the Cowboys earlier this season.
Lance, the third overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, was acquired from the San Francisco 49ers in August 2024 in exchange for a fourth-round pick. Since his arrival, he has primarily served as the third-string quarterback, seeing limited action in only three games. His last significant playing time dates back to Week 2 of the 2022 season, prior to a severe ankle injury that sidelined him for an extended period.
The catalyst for this opportunity stems from the Cowboys’ current quarterback situation. Following Dak Prescott’s season-ending hamstring injury in Week 9, Cooper Rush assumed the starting role, leading the team to a 4-4 record over eight starts. Rush’s performance, while steady, has not been exceptional, prompting discussions about evaluating Lance’s potential as the team looks toward the future.
Owner Jerry Jones had previously been non-committal about giving Lance playing time, emphasizing the importance of winning games and expressing confidence in Rush. However, with the Cowboys now eliminated from playoff contention, the focus has shifted to assessing talent for the upcoming season. Jones recently stated, “We’re obviously, for competitive reasons, not saying until gameday,” when asked about the quarterback plans for the final game, indicating a strategic decision to withhold information.
This development also carries financial implications. Rush’s contract includes a $500,000 bonus if he plays 55% of the team’s snaps this season; he currently stands at 52.5%. By allocating significant snaps to Lance, the Cowboys may prevent Rush from reaching this incentive, potentially saving the organization a substantial sum.
For Lance, this game represents a pivotal moment. With free agency looming in March, his performance could significantly influence his career trajectory, either solidifying his place with the Cowboys or showcasing his abilities to other potential suitors. Head coach Mike McCarthy, whose own future with the team is under scrutiny, expressed a commitment to evaluating all players: “We need to finish the race…a lot of decisions got to be made because of our contract situation.”
As the Cowboys prepare to face the Commanders, all eyes will be on Trey Lance. His performance could provide clarity for the team’s quarterback plans and offer insight into his potential as a starting quarterback in
the NFL.