The Dallas Cowboys are set to have a new backup quarterback behind Dak Prescott for the 2025 season. Over the weekend, Cooper Rush secured a two-year, $12.2 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens, officially making him Lamar Jackson’s backup. Rush had spent the past seven seasons with the Cowboys after going undrafted in 2017, despite an impressive college career at Central Michigan.
During his tenure with Dallas, Rush started 14 games, including five in 2022 and eight in 2024, stepping in when Prescott suffered a season-ending hamstring injury. On Monday, Prescott acknowledged his former backup’s departure with a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing, “Thank you Brother,” accompanied by a heart emoji.
Prescott and Rush shared a strong bond throughout their time together. In 2022, when Prescott was sidelined with a thumb injury, Rush stepped in and played effectively. During that period, Rush praised Prescott’s leadership and support, as noted by Layten Praytor of Cowboys.com. “I’ve said before he’s helped tremendously with our room, myself, and everyone else on the sidelines,” Rush remarked. “He’s bringing energy, that’s just who he is as a person or a leader.”
With Rush no longer in Dallas for the first time since 2017, the Cowboys must now determine who will serve as Prescott’s backup in 2025. Meanwhile, in Baltimore, Rush immediately slots in as the Ravens’ No. 2 quarterback. The only other quarterback to take snaps for Baltimore in 2024 besides Jackson was Josh Johnson, solidifying Rush’s role as the primary backup.
There has been some debate over Dallas’ handling of the situation, with some suggesting the team made a significant mistake by allowing Rush to leave. However, all eyes will now be on the Cowboys’ next move to fill the QB
2 spot.