The Dallas Cowboys, always a team under the microscope due to their storied history and passionate fanbase, have been a franchise on the lookout for ways to improve every position. One of the most scrutinized roles in the NFL is the backup quarterback, especially on a team like the Cowboys, where expectations are always high. With Dak Prescott at the helm as the team’s starting quarterback, Dallas has been searching for the right player to secure the backup role, and with the 2025 season approaching, the Cowboys have finally made their move to add a new backup for Prescott.
The backup quarterback position is often underestimated in the NFL, but for teams with championship aspirations, like the Cowboys, having a reliable and capable second-string quarterback is essential. Over the years, the Cowboys have had a few different backups, but none have been able to consistently give fans confidence should Prescott go down with an injury. Now, with a new addition to the quarterback room, the Cowboys look poised to have a solid safety net for their franchise signal caller.
This article will dive into the Cowboys’ decision to bring in a new backup quarterback, what this means for the team, and how the new addition fits within the larger scheme of the Cowboys’ 2025 season plans.
Dak Prescott’s Role in the Cowboys’ Offense
Before examining the Cowboys’ backup quarterback decision, it’s important to first look at the role Dak Prescott plays in this offense. Since taking over the starting role in 2016, Prescott has been the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ attack. His leadership, arm strength, and ability to perform under pressure have made him one of the NFL’s more respected quarterbacks.
However, Prescott has also faced some challenges in recent years. Injuries have kept him sidelined at different points, most notably a gruesome ankle injury in 2020. Although he has recovered from that injury, Prescott has struggled with consistency at times, especially in the postseason. The Cowboys have had strong regular-season performances but have fallen short in the playoffs, which has led to increased scrutiny of the quarterback position.
Dallas needs Prescott to remain healthy and continue developing his game to lead the Cowboys to the Super Bowl. The pressure is high, not just for Prescott, but for the team as a whole. To complement Prescott, the Cowboys’ front office realized the importance of bringing in a quarterback who could step in and keep the offense afloat in the event of an injury or underperformance by Prescott.
The Backup Quarterback Situation in Dallas
In past seasons, the Cowboys have tried a variety of options to fill the backup quarterback role. Cooper Rush, who took over for Prescott when he was injured in 2020, proved to be a reliable emergency option. Rush went 4-1 as a starter during Prescott’s absence, earning respect from fans and the coaching staff. His steady play during those games gave the Cowboys confidence that they could still win games without Prescott.
However, Rush’s role as the backup quarterback became increasingly uncertain as the Cowboys moved into 2024. While Rush’s performance was adequate, many felt that the Cowboys needed a backup with more upside—someone who could provide a stronger challenge to Prescott if necessary or even develop into a future starter if Prescott’s tenure in Dallas were to come to an end.
The Cowboys also experimented with other quarterbacks, like Will Grier, who had some moments in the preseason but failed to solidify a long-term role on the roster. With the uncertainty surrounding Grier’s future and Rush’s ceiling as a backup, the Cowboys began to explore new options for their quarterback room. This led to a big decision in the offseason that could change the dynamic of the backup role.
The New Backup Quarterback: A Big Signing for Dallas
As the 2025 season approached, the Cowboys made a move to secure their backup quarterback position by signing Marcus Mariota, the former Heisman Trophy winner and starting quarterback in the NFL. Mariota, who has had an interesting and winding career, offers a different set of skills than the quarterbacks the Cowboys had in the past.
Mariota, drafted second overall in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, was once seen as the future of the franchise. While his career has been filled with ups and downs, he has proven to be a capable quarterback, starting in various roles with the Titans, Raiders, and Falcons. Mariota brings experience, athleticism, and a strong arm to the Cowboys’ quarterback room, providing a significant upgrade over past backups.
Mariota’s most notable trait is his mobility. He has been known for his ability to extend plays with his legs, creating opportunities in the passing game even when plays break down. This skillset could be a valuable asset for the Cowboys, especially if Prescott were to suffer an injury or need to miss time. Mariota’s running ability could offer the Cowboys an added dimension on offense, making him a dangerous weapon in certain game situations.
His experience as a starting quarterback also provides a safety net for the Cowboys. While Prescott is undoubtedly the starter, having a veteran with extensive starting experience is invaluable in case of an injury or poor performance. Mariota has shown that he can lead a team and keep them competitive even when circumstances aren’t ideal.
One of the biggest advantages of signing Mariota is the flexibility it gives the Cowboys. If Prescott were to miss time, the Cowboys can feel confident that they would have a starting-caliber quarterback in Mariota. He can step in, run the offense, and manage the game effectively. This gives the Cowboys stability at the most important position on the field, which is crucial when aiming for a playoff berth and beyond.
Mariota’s Role in the Cowboys’ Offense
With Mariota now on board as the backup quarterback, it’s clear that his role will go beyond simply being a safety net. While Prescott is the clear-cut starter, Mariota’s mobility and experience allow the Cowboys to be creative with their offensive schemes. Mariota is a dual-threat quarterback, capable of throwing the ball downfield but also running the ball effectively. This provides the Cowboys with the potential to use him in special situations, such as short-yardage or goal-line packages, where his athleticism could come into play.
Additionally, Mariota’s experience in different offensive systems and his adaptability make him a valuable asset for the Cowboys. He can offer insight and knowledge to Prescott, potentially serving as a sounding board for the younger quarterback as he continues to grow and develop his game. While Mariota may not challenge Prescott for the starting job, his mentorship and leadership in the quarterback room could have a positive impact on the team as a whole.
Furthermore, if Prescott were to struggle with injury or consistency issues, Mariota is certainly capable of stepping in and leading the offense without missing a beat. His starting experience gives the Cowboys a backup option that is more than just a placeholder.
The Future of the Cowboys’ Quarterback Position
The signing of Marcus Mariota also has implications for the future of the Cowboys’ quarterback position. Dak Prescott is under contract for the foreseeable future, but the Cowboys must plan for a time when he may not be the team’s starting quarterback. While that may not be on the horizon for 2025, Mariota’s addition gives the team a potential bridge quarterback should they need to transition away from Prescott in the coming years.
Mariota, who is still relatively young at 30 years old, could provide stability if the Cowboys need a new starting quarterback. While he is not likely the long-term solution in Dallas, he could be a valuable player to have on the roster for the next few seasons. This is a smart move by the Cowboys, as they give themselves a competent backup while also keeping options open for the future.
Impact on the Cowboys’ 2025 Season
The signing of Marcus Mariota as the backup quarterback has important ramifications for the Cowboys’ 2025 season. The team is aiming for a Super Bowl run, and having a capable backup quarterback adds another layer of security. The ability to turn to a veteran who has experience leading an offense could prove crucial at various points throughout the season.
With Mariota backing up Prescott, the Cowboys can focus on their offensive line, weapons like CeeDee Lamb and Tony Pollard, and their defensive improvements without worrying about a potential drop-off if Prescott were to go down. This backup plan, combined with the rest of the team’s talent, makes Dallas a formidable contender in the NFC.
