One of the biggest changes the Dallas Cowboys made in the 2025 offseason was shaking up the backup quarterback position. Dak Prescott's absence for a large chunk of last season gave Cooper Rush a chance to show exactly why the team needed to make an upgrade. Rush is great for a game or a short stint, but given Prescott's injury history, there is reason to prepare for bigger issues. Rush landed in Baltimore, and the Cowboys traded for former New England Patriot Joe Milton.
Milton was solid in his first preseason action, leaving reason to believe this was the right decision. However, a forgotten Cowboys quarterback has been impressing early in the preseason, leaving room to wonder if the trade for Milton was needed in the first place.
Trey Lance signed with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he is competing with Taylor Heinicke for the backup role behind Justin Herbert. Early preseason returns have reminded the league of Lance's talent and why the quarterback was expected to be the future for the San Francisco 49ers. All of this leaves room to wonder if the wiser move would have been to re-sign Lance and keep the quarterback in the building, allowing a level of continuity.
Former Cowboys Quarterback Trey Lance Thriving in Preseason Action
Injuries and a lack of reps have prevented pundits and coaches from seeing what Lance's potential ceiling truly is. Fans must remember, though, that preseason reps can be deceiving and that a solid run with Los Angeles doesn't wipe away all the concerns.
However, it is impressive enough to leave fans wondering if the Cowboys made the wrong choice twice when it comes to the current Charger. The first mistake was putting the more limited Rush in the starting lineup during Prescott's extended absence. Secondly, Dallas opted to trade a draft pick for a backup rather than have Lance return.
It benefits both sides by bringing back a piece familiar with the players and having already built chemistry, and saving the draft pick that could be used for a future depth piece. Lance looking this impressive at least invites this debate, even with Milton appearing to be a solid answer.
For Lance, this is a great situation with Jim Harbaugh, known for propping up his quarterbacks and building confidence. If there is another level to be reached for the quarterback, he landed in the perfect situation to find it.