Dallas Cowboys Face Quarterback Dilemma Ahead of 2025 NFL Draft

Uncertainty Looms Over the No. 12 Pick

The Dallas Cowboys have been actively re-signing key players and securing talent through cost-effective deals. However, as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, speculation is mounting over what Jerry Jones and the front office plan to do with the No. 12 overall pick. While many expect the Cowboys to focus on bolstering other areas of the roster, team co-owner and director of personnel Stephen Jones has hinted at a surprising possibility—selecting a quarterback.

A New Backup for Dak Prescott?

During an episode of “The Insiders” on NFL Network, insider Ian Rapoport added fuel to the rumors surrounding the Cowboys’ potential quarterback selection. He pointed out that Cooper Rush’s departure to become Lamar Jackson’s backup in Baltimore opens the door for Dallas to find a new option behind Dak Prescott.

“Once the Cowboys let [Cooper Rush] move on, it becomes really interesting,” Rapoport noted. “Obviously, you have Dak Prescott as the starter, and he’s under contract for several years. But this to me says the Cowboys are going to go quarterback in the draft, and I wonder how high they are willing to go.”

Targeting Quinn Ewers in the Second Round?

Rapoport speculated that Dallas could target former Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers in the second round. While he believes the Cowboys are unlikely to use their first-round pick on a signal-caller, the idea of Ewers learning behind Prescott appears to be a viable option.

Other quarterback prospects who could be available for Dallas in the second round include Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart and Alabama’s Jalen Milroe. Some fans have even floated the possibility of trading up for Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, though Rapoport does not see that as a realistic move for Dallas.

Prescott’s Future and the Cowboys’ Plan

At 31 years old, Dak Prescott remains the franchise quarterback, and the Cowboys recently restructured his contract—along with CeeDee Lamb’s—to create salary cap flexibility. However, with Will Grier currently listed as the primary backup, the team may feel pressure to secure a long-term solution at the position.

Prescott’s health is also a factor in the decision. The Cowboys’ 2024 season took a dramatic turn when Prescott suffered a hamstring injury in Week 9’s 27-21 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The injury ultimately required season-ending surgery, forcing Dallas to rely on Cooper Rush for the remainder of the campaign and giving former No. 3 pick Trey Lance a single start.

Draft Strategy: Best Player Available or Quarterback of the Future?

While Dallas has several pressing needs heading into the draft, the departure of Rush and the uncertainty surrounding Prescott’s durability have intensified discussions about drafting a quarterback. If the Cowboys believe they can find a future starter or a reliable backup in the second round, they may seize the opportunity.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Cowboys’ war room to see whether they stick to their usual draft strategy or take a bold step toward securing their quarterback of the future.