Who is Cooper Rush? What you need to know about the Cowboys QB replacing Dak Prescott
Cooper Rush is set to take over as the Cowboys’ starting QB. Here’s what you need to know
With Dak Prescott expected to be sidelined for several weeks due to a thumb injury, backup quarterback Cooper Rush is now the Cowboys’ starting quarterback.
Rush, 28, has been with the Cowboys since 2017 but has only attempted 101 passes in four regular season games. He has played in front of 89,000 screaming fans and has won a playoff game, but both came in relief of Prescott.
What are the Cowboys getting in Rush?
Rush is a mobile quarterback with a strong arm and good accuracy. He was a four-year starter at Central Michigan and led the Chippewas to a bowl game in each of his final three seasons.
Rush was a middling prospect considered a late-round draft pick coming out of college. He signed with the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent.
Strengths
- Rush is good at getting the ball out quickly.
- His completion percentage is 68.1%.
- He has a strong arm and can make all the throws.
- He is a good athlete and can move around the pocket well.
Weaknesses
- Rush has limited starting experience.
- He has not shown the ability to consistently make plays down the field.
- He can be hesitant to throw the ball into tight windows.
Overall, Rush is a solid backup quarterback who is capable of winning games. He is not a superstar, but he can manage the game and make plays.
What are the expectations for Rush?
The Cowboys are not expecting Rush to be Dak Prescott. They are just hoping that he can play well enough to keep the team afloat until Prescott returns.
The expectations for Rush are modest. The Cowboys are not going to ask him to do too much. They just need him to play smart, avoid turnovers, and make good decisions.
If Rush can do that, the Cowboys should be able to stay in contention in the NFC East. They have a good running game and some talented playmakers on offense. If Rush can play well, the Cowboys could be a playoff contender.