Contrary to reports heading into the 2024 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys did not add a quarterback to the mix during the seven-round event.
Rumors indicated that Dallas might very well look to land an eventual heir-apparent to Dak Prescott as the two sides continue to struggle through contract negotiations.
Prescott is slated to become a free agent after the 2024 season. Dallas does not have the capability of placing the franchise tag on the reigning NFL MVP runner-up, meaning that he will hit the open market if an extension is not signed before.
Veteran Cooper Rush and former San Francisco 49ers first-round bust Trey Lance are the only other quarterbacks on Dallas’ roster heading into the meat of off-season activities.
It now appears that the Cowboys have made a decision on Lance’s future with the team. It’s also not too much of a surprise.
Related: Pick-by-pick analysis of the Dallas Cowboys’ 2024 Draft
Dallas Cowboys to decline fifth-year opton on Trey Lance’s contract
ESPN’s Todd Archer reports that the Cowboys will decline the $22.4 million option on Lance’s contract for the 2025 season.
Given Lance’s lack of experience since San Francisco made him the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, this really can’t be considered a surprise.
Lance, 23, has started all of four games in his three NFL seasons. He was acquired by Dallas ahead of the 2023 campaign for a fourth-round pick and did not appear in a game for the team.
Lance’s tenure with the 49ers came to an end after the 2022 season once Brock Purdy proved himself as the QB1. He ultimately could not beat out Sam Darnold or Brandon Allen for a spot on the 49ers’ 53-man roster.
Even then, this decision has everything up in the air as it relates to the Cowboys’ quarterback situation moving forward. Lance will now join Prescott (barring an extension) and Rush in free agency following next season.