**Breaking: What Are Cowboys’ Best Options at QB if Dak Prescott Leaves?**
The Dallas Cowboys have long been anchored by the steady play of quarterback Dak Prescott, but the future of the franchise QB has recently come into question. With Prescott entering the final years of his contract and rumors swirling about his potential departure, the Cowboys are being forced to consider their options at quarterback for the 2024 season and beyond.
While Prescott has been a consistent presence for the Cowboys since his rookie season in 2016, leading them to multiple playoff appearances, the team has not made it past the NFC Championship game under his leadership. If the Cowboys move on from Prescott, they would face a challenging offseason with significant questions surrounding the QB position.
### 1. **Drafting a Quarterback**
One of the most logical routes for the Cowboys would be to invest in a young quarterback through the NFL Draft. Given the depth of talent at the position in the 2024 draft class, Dallas could explore the possibility of selecting a top-tier prospect, such as Caleb Williams (USC) or Drake Maye (North Carolina), both of whom are expected to be among the first quarterbacks off the board.
A rookie quarterback would likely come with growing pains, but it would offer the Cowboys the opportunity to build for the future with a franchise-caliber player under a manageable rookie contract. Dallas could use the next few years to develop the rookie while relying on a veteran backup or interim starter until the young QB is ready to take the reins.
### 2. **Veteran Free Agent Options**
If the Cowboys decide they need a more immediate answer at quarterback, they could pursue a veteran free agent. The 2024 free-agent class is not as loaded as previous years, but there are a few veterans who could step in and provide stability while the team seeks long-term solutions.
– **Jimmy Garoppolo**: Garoppolo has been a successful starter for the San Francisco 49ers and could bring experience and leadership to the Cowboys. Though injury-prone, Garoppolo’s familiarity with offensive systems similar to Dallas’ could make him a viable option.
– **Kirk Cousins**: Another veteran with a strong track record, Cousins would provide a steady hand under center. While he has yet to win a Super Bowl, his consistency and ability to lead a high-powered offense could make him an appealing option for a team ready to win now.
### 3. **Trade for a Star Quarterback**
Another high-risk, high-reward option would be for the Cowboys to trade for an established quarterback. While names like Matthew Stafford or even potential trade rumors surrounding disgruntled quarterbacks like Kyler Murray could surface, the Cowboys would need to weigh the cost of trading for a proven starter versus developing a young talent.
### 4. **Backup Quarterbacks on the Roster**
Lastly, the Cowboys could opt to build around their current backup quarterbacks. With **Cooper Rush** proving capable in spot starts over the past two seasons, the Cowboys could stick with him as a bridge option while they assess their long-term strategy.
In any scenario, the departure of Dak Prescott would set the stage for a pivotal chapter in the Cowboys’ history. The team’s success over the coming years will depend heavily on how they handle the quarterback situation. Whether through the draft, free agency, or a trade, the Cowboys will have critical decisions to make that will impact their Super Bowl aspirations for the foreseeable future.
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