Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones explains why team traded for Trey Lance
Dak Prescott can take a deep breath. During the Dallas Cowboys’ 31-16 preseason win over the Las Vegas Raiders, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones discussed the team’s trade for quarterback Trey Lance.
“Just really felt like it was a chance for us to have a young guy in the room that’s on the come,” Jones said on the CBS 11 game broadcast, per Jon Machota of ‘The Athletic.’ “It certainly has no effect on Dak and his future. We look forward to getting his long-term contract signed sooner than later.”
On Friday, the Cowboys acquired the 2021 No. 3 overall pick from the 49ers for a future fourth-round pick. The move came just two days after head coach Kyle Shanahan named Sam Darnold the backup to Brock Purdy, making Lance the third option on the quarterback depth chart.
Despite Lance’s fall on the 49ers’ depth chart, he doesn’t completely lack experience. In two NFL seasons, Lance has eight appearances, including four starts. In his limited time, Lance tallied 797 passing yards with five touchdowns and three interceptions on 54.9% passing.
Lance’s numbers are deflated, as well. The former North Dakota State standout suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 2 last season after starting the 49ers’ first two contests. After seeing Lance suffer so much, Shanahan wanted to ensure he found an opportunity somewhere in the league.
“It was a very tough fight, but in the long run, Sam ended up winning it,” Shanahan said. “Once I knew that was the case, wanted to make sure I told Trey as fast as I could.”
The harsh truth about the Trey Lance situation
Now, the Cowboys will pay Lance in hopes he reaches his bright potential. Dallas owes Lance $6.25 million fully guaranteed over the next two seasons. Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Cowboys still have the ability to exercise his fifth-year option.
While Dallas might provide Lance with better opportunities, it won’t be a walk in the park, either. As of now, Lance will be third on the Cowboys’ depth chart, trailing Prescott and QB2 Cooper Rush.
Nonetheless, with Prescott’s contract negotiations looming just over the horizon, Lance has a chance to make a difference in Dallas. Prescott seemingly isn’t concerned by the new competition.
“I obviously understand that it’s a business,” Prescott said via John Machota. “That’s a first-round talent. You always try to make your team better. We’re gonna welcome him as we do any teammate. Hopefully, it makes us better. … He seems like a great guy.”
On3’s Nick Geddes also contributed to this article.