The Dallas Cowboys have been preparing to completely bounce back in 2025. After three straight seasons of 12 regular season wins, Dallas came crashing down in 2024. Injuries and poor play derailed their season last year, however, they may not be out of the woods yet.
Dallas isn’t buzzing about who’ll attend training camp, but rather who might not be ready. There was a surprise this week for Cowboys fans who thought Dak Prescott was fully healthy.
Prescott’s Setback Raises Offseason Concerns
Just days after the 2025 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys have been hit with major concern. Quarterback Dak Prescott is dealing with a new injury issue that could disrupt offseason plans.
Despite reports and footage of him working out with teammates, Cowboys executive vice president and co-owner Stephen Jones threw cold water on the optimism surrounding Prescott’s recovery.
Jones, speaking to The Dallas Morning News’ Calvin Watkins, made it clear the team doesn’t plan to rush its $60 million quarterback back into action.
“Just as you would expect. We’re going to be very cautious and conservative,” Jones said. “But if you left it up to him, he’d be out here throwing to them, ready to play the Giants on Monday night.”
That comment alone raised some eyebrows and sparked immediate concern. If Dak Prescott were truly at full strength, would there even be a need for such a conservative tone?
The timing couldn’t be worse. The draft had just wrapped up, and focus was expected to shift to team-building and conditioning. Instead, Prescott’s recovery becomes the central storyline.
Prescott has shown resilience before. He recovered from the original injury with determination and returned to lead the Cowboys to multiple playoff runs. But this new setback may limit his offseason preparation and timing with receivers.
Read More: The 10 Most Inspirational Career-Defining Comebacks in NFL History
Cowboys’ Quarterback Depth Faces Scrutiny
Dallas passed on drafting a quarterback in 2025. That decision is now under scrutiny. With Prescott’s health in doubt, many are asking if the Cowboys missed a key opportunity.
Backup Cooper Rush is the next man up. He has played in spot starts but lacks Prescott’s command and leadership. Rush has won games but may not be a long-term solution.
Head coach Mike McCarthy has yet to issue a statement. The Cowboys organization has also remained silent as fans await clarification. Questions about a possible veteran signing or trade will likely grow louder.
The team is still in a competitive window. A healthy Prescott is key to contending in the NFL. Without him, expectations could shift.
Cowboys insiders have suggested the team may take a cautious approach. Prescott is valuable, and risking long-term health for short-term readiness is not ideal.
Prescott’s leadership remains intact. Teammates have always respected his toughness and work ethic. But the NFL moves fast. If he misses significant time, Dallas will need a backup plan.
For now, Dallas finds itself in an uncomfortable spot. The franchise QB is once again rehabbing, and the clock toward training camp is ticking.
Read More: Ranking the 20 Most Polarizing Quarterbacks in NFL History
