Dallas Cowboys: Backup Quarterback | Preseason Schedule | Coach

The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic franchises in the NFL, continue to dominate headlines with their high-profile roster, passionate fan base, and championship aspirations. As the 2025 NFL preseason gets underway, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with questions about the team’s depth at quarterback, their preseason schedule, and the leadership from the coaching staff. This in-depth guide provides everything you need to know about the Dallas Cowboys’ backup quarterback situation, their 2025 preseason schedule, and a look at the coaching strategy driving the team forward.

Dallas Cowboys Backup Quarterback for 2025: Who’s the No. 2?

The Role of the Backup QB

In today’s NFL, having a reliable backup quarterback isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Injuries, inconsistent performances, or even strategic game planning can thrust a second-string QB into the spotlight. For the Dallas Cowboys, whose fan expectations are consistently high, the importance of a trustworthy backup behind starter Dak Prescott cannot be overstated.

Who Is the Current Backup?

As of the 2025 NFL preseason, the Cowboys’ backup quarterback is Trey Lance. Acquired via trade from the San Francisco 49ers in 2023, Lance is a former third overall pick who brings athleticism, a strong arm, and untapped potential to the Cowboys’ depth chart.

Trey Lance Profile:

• Age: 25
• Height: 6’4”
• Weight: 224 lbs
• College: North Dakota State
• NFL Experience: 4 years (1 with Dallas)

After spending 2023 and 2024 learning the Cowboys’ offensive system, Lance is expected to take major strides in the 2025 preseason. His mobility and raw skillset give the Cowboys a dynamic option in case Prescott is unavailable.

Other Quarterbacks in Camp

In addition to Prescott and Lance, the Cowboys have brought in Cooper Rush, a seasoned veteran familiar with the system, and undrafted rookie Jalen Daniels for training camp reps. While Rush provides stability, Daniels is seen as a developmental prospect with upside.

Dallas Cowboys Preseason Schedule 2025

Preseason games offer fans their first glimpse of the team’s potential, help coaches evaluate talent, and allow players to secure spots on the final 53-man roster. Here’s the complete Dallas Cowboys 2025 preseason schedule:

Week 1: Dallas Cowboys vs. Los Angeles Rams

• Date: August 10, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM CST
• Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
• TV: NFL Network

This game will feature limited snaps from starters, but fans can expect Trey Lance to see extensive action as he battles to solidify the QB2 role.

Week 2: Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos

• Date: August 17, 2025
• Time: 8:00 PM CST
• Location: Empower Field at Mile High
• TV: ESPN

A tougher matchup due to Denver’s aggressive defense. Key battles on the offensive line and secondary depth will be spotlighted.

Week 3: Dallas Cowboys @ Miami Dolphins

• Date: August 23, 2025
• Time: 6:30 PM CST
• Location: Hard Rock Stadium
• TV: FOX

Traditionally the dress rehearsal game, Week 3 may feature Dak Prescott and other starters playing into the second quarter. Expect a focus on rhythm and chemistry in the passing game.

Week 4: Dallas Cowboys vs. Houston Texans

• Date: August 29, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM CST
• Location: AT&T Stadium
• TV: CBS

This final preseason game is all about the bubble players. The backup quarterback, wide receivers, linebackers, and special teams units will be heavily rotated.

Head Coach: Mike McCarthy’s Leadership and Philosophy

Who Is the Cowboys’ Coach in 2025?

Mike McCarthy continues to serve as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys in 2025. First hired in 2020, McCarthy has led the team to several playoff appearances and is determined to break the Cowboys’ long Super Bowl drought.

Coaching Career Highlights:

• Super Bowl Champion with Green Bay Packers (2010)
• Career Record (as of 2025): 155-105-2
• Cowboys Record: 49-28
• Playoff Appearances with Dallas: 3
• NFC East Titles: 2

Coaching Philosophy

McCarthy’s offensive scheme blends West Coast principles with modern spread concepts. He emphasizes:

• Quarterback decision-making
• Up-tempo offensive rhythm
• Strong offensive line play
• Disciplined defense under DC Dan Quinn

McCarthy has faced criticism in past years for game management issues, but his overall consistency and playoff experience make him a solid presence in the locker room.

Coordinators & Key Coaching Staff

• Offensive Coordinator: Brian Schottenheimer
• Defensive Coordinator: Dan Quinn
• Special Teams Coach: John Fassel

Schottenheimer, known for simplifying quarterback reads, will play a crucial role in developing Lance. Dan Quinn continues to lead one of the NFL’s most aggressive and opportunistic defenses.

Key Preseason Position Battles

Backup Running Back

With Tony Pollard departing in free agency, Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn, and rookie Blake Corum are vying for the backup and primary roles.

WR Depth

After CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks, watch out for Jalen Tolbert, KaVontae Turpin, and Jalen Brooks to make a push for roster spots.

Offensive Line Depth

The health of All-Pro tackle Tyron Smith remains in question, so rookies and swing tackles like Matt Waletzko and Asim Richards must prove themselves.

What Fans Should Watch in Preseason

• Trey Lance’s accuracy and command of the offense
• Chemistry between Dak Prescott and new receivers
• Emergence of a clear RB1 and RB2
• Pass-rush consistency from Micah Parsons and company
• Special teams coverage improvements

2025 Season Outlook

With a healthy roster, a top-tier defense, and an experienced coaching staff, the Cowboys are again NFC contenders. However, questions surrounding Prescott’s contract extension, Lance’s development, and postseason consistency remain focal points.

Predicted Record: 11-6

Division Finish: 1st in NFC East

Playoff Prediction: NFC Championship Game appearance

Final Thoughts

The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2025 NFL preseason with a promising mix of seasoned veterans and rising young talent. Backup quarterback Trey Lance’s progress could determine how deep this team can go if adversity hits. The preseason schedule offers fans a valuable look at position battles and roster depth, while Mike McCarthy’s coaching will once again be scrutinized in his fifth season with the team.

As always, expectations in Dallas are sky-high. Whether it’s a Super Bowl run or another heartbreak, one thing is certain—the Dallas Cowboys will be one of the most talked-about teams in football.

FAQs

Who is the Dallas Cowboys backup quarterback in 2025?

Trey Lance is the current backup quarterback behind starter Dak Prescott.

When does the Cowboys’ 2025 preseason begin?

The Cowboys kick off their preseason on August 10, 2025, against the Los Angeles Rams.

Who is the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys?

Mike McCarthy is serving as the head coach in the 2025 season, his sixth year with the team.

What should fans watch during the preseason?

Watch for Trey Lance’s development, running back competitions, and offensive line depth battles.

Will Dak Prescott play in the preseason?

Prescott may play limited snaps in Week 3, traditionally the most competitive preseason matchup.