As the Cowboys prepare to face upcoming challenges without their starting QB Dak Prescott, Cooper Rush steps into the spotlight once again. Known for his grit and savvy play, Rush has kept Dallas afloat before, boasting a 4-1 record from his last stint as a starter in 2022. Here are 10 things that show what makes Rush more than just a backup.
1. Jason Garrett Impression
Rush’s teammates once coaxed him into a memorable impression of former Cowboys coach Jason Garrett. Dak Prescott, Jason Witten, and others watched as Rush reenacted Garrett’s trademark “How are we doing, boys?” with spot-on mannerisms, giving the team some comic relief.
2. Golfing Entrepreneur
In 2024, Rush co-launched Path2Scratch, a golf fashion brand aimed at motivating golfers and creating community. Rush’s new brand, which showcases him prominently on social media, initially launched with three signature hats.
3. Historic Start in the NFL
After Prescott was injured in 2022, Rush became the 14th quarterback in NFL history to win his first five starts, proving his value. During that stretch, he kept the Cowboys competitive with solid play, completing 57.6% of his passes for over 1,000 yards and five touchdowns.
4. College Heroics at Central Michigan
Rush’s knack for last-second heroics dates back to college, where he led Central Michigan to an improbable win over Oklahoma State in 2016 on a Hail Mary pass, awarded due to an officiating error that gave him one extra play.
5. Bahamas Bowl Magic
In 2014, Rush put on an unforgettable show at the Bahamas Bowl, throwing an NCAA bowl-record seven touchdowns and nearly completing a win with a last-second lateral play. His dramatic drive to tie the game ended in a narrow one-point loss.
6. Earned Two-Year Contract
After solid performances as a fill-in starter, Rush signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the Cowboys in 2023, securing his role as a trusted backup and locking in $2.75 million guaranteed.
7. College Math Whiz
Rush majored in actuarial science, a field heavy in math and statistics. Known for his “beautiful mind” in complex math subjects, teammates noted that Rush could breeze through chapters and ace exams with only minimal preparation.
8. Dak Prescott’s Biggest Fan
Prescott has repeatedly praised Rush’s focus and readiness, stating he has been one of Rush’s biggest fans since he joined the team. Prescott even joked he was handing out fan club applications for his backup, impressed by his poise and preparedness.
9. Jerry Jones’ High Comparison
Jerry Jones has compared Rush’s work ethic to Cowboys legends Troy Aikman and Tony Romo, emphasizing Rush’s relentless drive and calling him a “workingest football player.” Jones sees natural quarterbacking talent in Rush, noting his potential to impact games.
10. NFL Comparison Raised Eyebrows
Rush’s draft profile on NFL.com compared him to former Cowboy Kellen Moore, critiquing his arm strength and calling him a “great kid” but “below the minimum standard” for arm power. Rush has since proven that his dedication and skill make him a solid NFL contributor, surpassing those early evaluations.
With Prescott sidelined, Cowboys fans are hopeful that Rush can deliver once again and bring stability to the Cowboys’ offense in the weeks to come.
