What's Next for Trey Lance?

This offseason for Dallas Cowboys quarterback Trey Lance was all about improving to the point where he could usurp the ever-dependable Cooper Rush for the backup role behind Dak Prescott .

Lance's performances in his three preseason games were solid but not enough to move the need in the direction it needed and as expected, head coach Mike McCarthy stated that Rush would be QB2.

But that doesn't mean Lance's journey is over.

“Cooper's taking the (No. 2) reps this week,” McCarthy said. “Very encouraged and really excited with the growth that Trey took through the whole process. It's just we just got to continue to develop him, you can see the things that he's really focused on, the concept, footwork and things like that. It got better each week throughout the preseason.''

But not "better'' enough, obvious. Still ...

"I thought he did a great job extending plays with his legs, made some plays in the quarterback run phase of it, but just trying to continue that drop-back passing,'' McCarthy said. "So he's making strides and I don't know if there's anybody on our team that’s benefited more from the preseason than Trey Lance.”

Lance's upside has been what most are holding onto regarding his place on the roster, and given that he hasn't had many live game reps, it clearly has hurt him as he looks to establish himself in Dallas.

But now there's a bigger issue.

There is a real chance that Lance doesn't take another meaningful snap in 2024 and will be the third quarterback on game day. That isn't ideal for a young player who needs live action to develop.

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Also, with Lance, like Dak and Rush, not having a contract beyond 2024, exactly where that leaves his future is unknown, and considering unless a monumental injury toll happens, Dallas won't get to see Lance "grow'' ... aside from the drills he does in practice.

McCarthy liked what he saw from Lance and his continual improvements this offseason, but it wasn't enough to claim the backup role.

And that leaves many wondering what's next for the former first-round pick.