The Dallas Cowboys appear to be taking proactive measures with injured quarterback Dak Prescott, prioritizing his health above all.

During his weekly radio chat on 105.3 The FAN, team owner Jerry Jones mentioned, “It’s likely we’ll place him on IR,” implying Prescott will be out for at least the next four games while he recovers from a hamstring injury sustained in Sunday’s defeat against the Falcons in Atlanta.

After the game, Prescott described the injury as “something he’s never experienced before,” with the pain clearly evident during his final pass. The medical team decided to pull him from the game since he could not adequately protect himself on the field. Nonetheless, NFL Media reported on Monday that Prescott intended to undertake a rigorous rehab program to return to play as soon as possible.

However, it seems that his comeback will be delayed.

This latest setback adds to what has been a disappointing season for the reigning NFC East champions, who currently sit at 3-5 and now face the challenge of playing without their key player for an extended period.

Which Games Will Dak Prescott Miss?

If he is placed on injured reserve, the 2023 league MVP runner-up, who recently signed a record extension of 4 years for $240 million, will be sidelined until at least December 9. This upcoming period is crucial since three out of the Cowboys’ next four games are against divisional rivals: vs. Philadelphia Eagles (November 10), at Washington Commanders (November 24), and vs. New York Giants on November 28, which is their traditional Thanksgiving game. The other match is a Monday night home game against the Houston Texans on November 18, a game that undoubtedly carries additional significance for local fans wanting state bragging rights.

Prescott’s statistics have dipped compared to last season when he led the NFL with 410 completions and 36 touchdown passes. He is currently averaging 247.3 passing yards per game—18 yards less than last year—along with 11 touchdowns and eight interceptions. His completion percentage (64.7%) and passer rating (a career-low 86.0) are not meeting his usual performance standards.

Prescott would have the chance to return for Week 14 during a home game against the Cincinnati Bengals, but there is a possibility he could be sidelined for the remainder of the season, depending on his recovery progress and the team’s overall performance.

Who Are the Cowboys’ Backup QBs?

With Prescott likely out for a while, the Cowboys have some interesting options at quarterback.

Cooper Rush has not seen much action lately but stepped in effectively, completing 13 of 25 passes for 115 yards and one touchdown in relief against Atlanta. He was instrumental in saving the 2022 regular season, winning four out of five games when Prescott was sidelined with an injury. Having spent almost his entire seven-year career with Dallas, Rush is well-acquainted with the team’s personnel and offense.

Jones also hinted that QB3 Trey Lance might get a chance to play—an opportunity that could reignite the career of the No. 3 pick from the 2021 draft. Acquired from the San Francisco 49ers ahead of the 2023 season, Lance has yet to overtake Rush but will be a free agent next year.

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