BREAKING: Former $242 Million Star QB Floated as Cowboys’ Potential Dak Replacement
Things are heating up within the Dallas Cowboys organization as they face the possibility of encountering another contract dispute with Dak Prescott. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, a new contract extension for Prescott is not on the horizon, potentially paving the way for him to explore free agency in 2025.
It is important to note that Prescott possesses no-franchise tag and no-trade clauses in his current agreement, allowing him to become a free agent in 2025. Before this recent development, USA Today’s K.D. Drummond raised concerns about the Cowboys’ limited options at quarterback if they are unable to secure Prescott’s signature.
One potential solution for the Cowboys in 2025 could be pursuing Russell Wilson, the newly acquired quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Drummond suggested in a March 19, 2024 article titled “It may be time for Cowboys to focus on 2025, so here’s the plan” that Wilson could be an option if he performs well with the Steelers and becomes a free agent after the upcoming season.
Drummond also highlighted the possibilities of other quarterbacks like Trey Lance, who is currently with the Cowboys, and Justin Fields, now playing for the Steelers, as viable but not yet established options. As for Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals, he might become a trade candidate in 2025 with financial implications for both his current team and any potential acquiring franchise.
Cowboys Rumors: Dallas Would Have a $45 Million Dead Cap Hit in 2025 If Dak Prescott Leaves
"The Cowboys are in a situation with Dak Prescott going into the last year of his deal..
If he leaves after this year the dead money cap charge is $95M that they'd have to spread out..
If he becomes a free agent next year there will be no shortage of suitors" ~ @AdamSchefter pic.twitter.com/pP0o64vDHp
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 26, 2024
The Dallas Cowboys are facing a challenging situation not only due to the scarcity of available quarterbacks but also because of the significant financial repercussions they would incur if Dak Prescott decides to depart. As per a report by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Cowboys would be burdened with a massive dead cap hit of 45 million dead cap hit.
Hoyt highlighted in a message on X on March 26 that Prescott, Cooper Rush, and Trey Lance are all slated to become free agents after the upcoming season. Additionally, due to the presence of voidable years in Prescott’s contract, the Cowboys would already be facing a $40 million cap hit for him next year if he chooses to leave. This scenario would make for a costly and potentially vacant quarterback room for the Cowboys.
Russell Wilson Could Be an Affordable Alternative QB Option
RUSSELL WILSON HAIL MARY TOUCHDOWN pic.twitter.com/37oRaH3J6L
— Alex 👋 (@Dubs408) September 17, 2023
Wilson’s struggle was primarily linked to his substantial five-year, ,1.2 million deal with the Steelers, Wilson will once again enter free agency next season.
Although Wilson’s on-field performance did not justify his high price tag, he did show improvement compared to his initial year in Denver. In 2023, Pro Football Focus gave Wilson a respectable grade of 77.5.
As we approach 2025, the key question surrounding Wilson is which version of the star player a team will acquire. Beyond the financial aspect, one advantage Wilson holds over Prescott is his success in the playoffs. With a championship victory, two Super Bowl appearances, and a 9-7 playoff record, Wilson has demonstrated his prowess in postseason play.
At 35 years old, it remains to be seen whether Wilson can replicate any of his postseason success. When he was with the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson’s agent Mark Rodgers mentioned the Cowboys as one of four teams the quarterback would approve as a trade destination in 2021. Wilson now has the opportunity to regain his status as a starting NFL quarterback in Pittsburgh, potentially attracting the interest of Dallas.
