The Dallas Cowboys are on a dangerous path. The slippery slope to quarterback purgatory is steeper than those who take quarterback Dak Prescott for granted would like to admit, and there's less reason to be optimistic about Dallas' situation under center. .
Until Prescott puts on another uniform, some may not believe he's gone, and that's understandable. He's 11 months away from impending free agency, but a lot can change, relationships can be mended and pen can reach paper. But until then, it's worth speculating who will replace him.
The most likely option may be in the NFL Draft, but the 2025 class is not attractive at this point. Could a young veteran replace Prescott?
As Christopher Klein points out, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields could be an option for the Cowboys.
A former first-round pick, Fields flashed that potential more and more often during his time with the Chicago Bears, but consistent consistency proved elusive. He will be getting a fresh start with a respected organization, but will begin the campaign on the bench behind veteran quarterback Russell Wilson.
“The Pittsburgh Steelers will likely decline Justin Fields' $25.7 million contract option for next season, making the former first-round pick a free agent,” Klein wrote. “It's clear, at least on paper, that Fields is Russell Wilson's successor in Pittsburgh. But if Fields ends up riding this pine all season as expected, he might find a more suitable home. You might want to.”
Fields had the best year of his career in 2023, throwing for 2,562 yards, 16 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. He posted career highs in completion percentage, passer rating, and interception rate, but was generally below average overall.
Simply put, he would be a seismic shift from Prescott's game. Fields is incredibly athletic, perhaps even better than Prescott, but lacks the post-snap ability of his potential predecessor and struggles to manage sacks and manipulate quick games. Therefore, some general changes will be necessary.
“It's clear the league doesn't place much value on Fields' three seasons as QB1 for the Bears,” Klein wrote. “His numbers have never been great, but the complete lack of trust in such a dynamic athlete is a little surprising. It gives Dallas a chance to find great value in a bargain.” It has the potential to bring about.”
Of course, this theory means Dallas won't be “stocking too much” on Trey Lance, a young reserve who will be free as soon as next March, but the idea? At least, the next quarterback for the U.S. national team. Selecting Fields as a forward gives them a unique advantage that no other consistent passer could offer.