The Dallas Cowboys’ season continues to unravel, dropping to 3-7 after a frustrating Week 11 loss. While much of the blame falls on the team’s overall dysfunction, one decision stands out as a glaring misstep: the trade for quarterback Trey Lance.
In 2023, the Cowboys sent a fourth-round pick to the San Francisco 49ers for Lance, hoping to unlock the potential of the former third-overall draft pick. Lance, who had lost his starting job to Brock Purdy in San Francisco, was seen as a project with untapped upside. But nearly two seasons later, the move appears to have backfired.
Rush Over Lance: A Sign of Admission?
Lance has been stuck in the shadows since his arrival in Dallas. This season, injuries to Dak Prescott have thrust Cooper Rush into the starting role, with disappointing results. Over the past two games, the Cowboys’ offense has managed just 16 points. Rush has struggled, throwing one interception and fumbling five times this season. Despite his inefficiency, head coach Mike McCarthy announced Rush would remain the starter, leaving Lance as the backup.
For a team desperate for offensive sparks, the decision to keep Lance sidelined is puzzling. His mobility and ability to push the ball downfield offer an intriguing alternative to Rush’s conservative approach. Yet, the Cowboys appear unwilling to take that gamble, raising questions about their faith in Lance.
The Case Against the Trade
From the moment the deal was made, critics questioned the Cowboys’ logic. Trading a valuable fourth-round pick for a quarterback who hadn’t shown much in the NFL seemed like a reach. The preseason didn’t help Lance’s case, as he struggled with turnovers and failed to unseat Rush as QB2.
Now, with the offense sputtering, the Cowboys’ refusal to test Lance on the field seems like an admission: the trade was a mistake.
What’s Next for Dallas and Lance?
At this stage, the Cowboys have little to lose by giving Lance an opportunity. While his inexperience might lead to more turnovers, his dual-threat ability could breathe life into a stagnant offense. With Prescott out and the playoffs slipping further away, experimenting with Lance would at least provide clarity on his future with the team.
For now, Dallas appears committed to Rush, signaling that Lance’s development isn’t a priority. As the losses pile up, the gamble to bring Lance into the fold looks increasingly like a swing and a miss for Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office.
Whether Lance gets a shot to prove himself or not, the decision to trade for him will likely be scrutinized for years to come.
