Dallas Cowboys Eyeing Young Quarterback in 2025 NFL Draft: A Move Toward the Future
The Dallas Cowboys are at a crucial crossroads as they approach the 2025 NFL Draft. With their quarterback situation in flux, the front office is actively looking to add a fresh face to the position. Whether this means bringing in a young signal-caller to develop behind Dak Prescott or setting the stage for a long-term transition, the upcoming draft could significantly impact the team’s future.
Why Are the Cowboys Looking for a Quarterback?
Dallas has long relied on Dak Prescott, who has been the face of the franchise since taking over as the starting quarterback in 2016. However, as time passes, the Cowboys must think about life beyond their current star.
Prescott’s contract situation is a major factor in this decision. He is set to play under a hefty $47 million cap hit in 2025. While he remains one of the better quarterbacks in the league, the business side of football always looms. If the Cowboys fail to reach a long-term deal that is financially sustainable, they might be forced to move on sooner rather than later.
Additionally, the depth chart behind Prescott is uncertain. Cooper Rush, who has stepped in admirably when called upon, and Trey Lance, who was acquired from the San Francisco 49ers but hasn’t seen much playing time, are both heading into free agency. If neither returns, Dallas will be left with only one quarterback under contract—an unsustainable scenario for any NFL team.
Stephen Jones Confirms Interest in Drafting a Quarterback
Cowboys Executive Vice President Stephen Jones has openly stated that adding a young quarterback is a priority. “I think one of our goals is to get a young quarterback in the draft,” Jones said. This aligns with the Cowboys’ long-standing philosophy of maintaining depth at the most important position in football.
Historically, Dallas has invested in quarterbacks through various avenues, whether it was drafting Troy Aikman No. 1 overall in 1989, developing Tony Romo as an undrafted free agent, or finding Prescott in the fourth round. While they haven’t drafted a quarterback in recent years, the front office understands the importance of preparing for the future.
Potential Quarterback Prospects for the Cowboys in 2025
With 10 picks in the upcoming draft, the Cowboys have ample opportunities to select a quarterback. The question remains: Which prospects fit their mold?
- Tyler Shough (Louisville)
- The 6’5”, 225-pound quarterback had an impressive 2024 season, throwing for over 3,000 yards with 23 touchdowns and six interceptions. Though he will be 25 by the time he enters the league, Shough has the experience and skill set that could make him a solid backup with developmental potential.
- Quinn Ewers (Texas)
- The Texas Longhorns’ star has been on NFL radars for a while. While some see him as a first-round talent, his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine and pro days will dictate where he lands. His strong arm and ability to process defenses make him a potential fit for the Cowboys’ offense.
- Michael Pratt (Tulane)
- A sleeper pick, Pratt has been one of the most efficient quarterbacks at the collegiate level. If the Cowboys are looking for a mid-to-late-round quarterback to develop behind Prescott, Pratt could be an ideal candidate.
What This Means for Dak Prescott’s Future
Drafting a quarterback doesn’t necessarily mean the Cowboys are moving on from Prescott immediately, but it does indicate they are preparing for a future without him. Prescott has been reliable, durable (outside of his 2020 injury), and a leader in the locker room. However, if contract negotiations don’t go as planned or if his performance declines, having a young quarterback waiting in the wings is a smart strategy.
This approach mirrors what teams like the Green Bay Packers did with Jordan Love and Aaron Rodgers. By selecting a young quarterback while their veteran starter was still performing at a high level, they ensured continuity. The Cowboys could be thinking along the same lines.
How This Decision Affects the Cowboys’ 2025 Season and Beyond
Bringing in a rookie quarterback could create competition in training camp and preseason. While Prescott would remain the starter, having a young QB in the building could push him to elevate his game even further. It also gives the coaching staff the chance to develop a quarterback in their system, ensuring the transition is smooth whenever Prescott’s tenure in Dallas ends.
Moreover, if Prescott performs at an elite level in 2025 and leads the Cowboys deep into the playoffs, the team may feel more inclined to offer him an extension. On the flip side, if injuries or inconsistency arise, having a young quarterback ready to step in provides a safety net.
The Bigger Picture: Smart Team Building
The Cowboys understand the importance of smart roster construction. With the salary cap continuing to rise, investing in a young quarterback on a rookie contract provides flexibility to build the rest of the roster. Allocating resources wisely, especially at the quarterback position, is crucial to sustained success in the modern NFL.
While fans may not want to think about life after Prescott just yet, the front office must be forward-thinking. Drafting a quarterback doesn’t mean the end of an era; it simply means Dallas is ensuring stability for the future.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for the Cowboys?
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, expect the Cowboys to be heavily linked to multiple quarterback prospects. Whether they take one in the early rounds or wait until later in the draft, the goal remains the same: securing the future of the franchise at the most important position in football.
While Dak Prescott is still the present, the Cowboys are wisely planning for what’s next. Fans should pay close attention to pre-draft workouts, scouting reports, and front-office moves, as these will provide insight into which quarterback might be donning the star on his helmet in the near future.
No matter what happens, one thing is clear: The Cowboys are thinking ahead, and drafting a quarterback is a crucial step in ensuring long-term success.