After being traded from the San Francisco 49ers, it feels like quarterback Trey Lance has finally settled in as a Dallas Cowboy.
While owner Jerry Jones has been clear about his support for Dak Prescott as the starter, that has not stopped Lance’s desire to get better and be ready for when his time comes.
Quarterback coach Scott Tolzien and Lance have created an instructed pregame workout that helps Lance get back to the fundamentals in hopes of growing as a quarterback.
Head coach Mike McCarthy refers to this work as “QB School,” in which they will be working on specific points of his technique.
“Really pleased with Trey so far,” Tolzien said. “His approach is what stands out more than anything. This guy is willing to improve, he puts in the time in the classroom and on the field. He wants to get better and I’m appreciative of that.”
Instead of being comfortable in his backup spot, Lance has proven to be a priceless part of this offense. From fulfilling his scout team duties, always being available during practice, to answering questions correctly in position meetings, the effort and energy around Lance are palpable.
Lance was drafted three years ago as the No. 3 overall pick to be the starter in San Francisco but lost the backup job to Sam Darnold during pre-season camp.
Since arriving in Dallas in August, Lance has worked diligently with Tolzien to focus on improving his footwork and release elements of his throwing fundamentals.
Thanks to the new NFL rule which allows three quarterbacks to dress and work out, it has given Lance and other backup quarterback Cooper Rush the opportunity to get more reps and prove the continuation of his growth.
Instead of having a cut-throat, me-not-we mentality in the quarterback room, the Cowboys have picked a group in which the team’s success is more important than personal gain.
“Everyone has worked well together from Dak to Cooper to Trey, “ Tolzien said. “They’re all in it to help each other out.”
So next time during pregame, when the stadium is silent and there are no fans to be found, there will be Trey Lance, always preparing for when his chance will come.
