Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott will sit out the team’s upcoming preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed Thursday. This marks Prescott’s second consecutive absence from preseason action, following his decision not to play in the opening exhibition game against the Los Angeles Rams. The move is part of a cautious approach to managing Prescott’s workload as he continues recovering from a hamstring injury sustained last season and works on building chemistry with new teammates.
Preseason Strategy and Backup Quarterback Opportunities
With Prescott sidelined for the Baltimore game, the Cowboys plan to give starting duty to backup quarterback Joe Milton, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate their quarterback depth ahead of the regular season. Another backup, Will Grier, is also expected to see playing time as the team looks to assess all options at the position. Prescott’s final preseason appearance is likely to come in Dallas’ last exhibition match against the Atlanta Falcons on Friday, August 22, giving him limited reps before the regular season begins.
Will the Coaching Change Alter the Cowboys’ Postseason Outlook?
This season brings a new element to the Cowboys’ quest for postseason success with the arrival of head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Fans and analysts alike are curious whether this fresh leadership can break the pattern of regular-season promise followed by playoff disappointment that has long defined the franchise. Schottenheimer’s first games as head coach are under close scrutiny as the team aims to harness both talent and strategy for a deeper playoff run than seen in recent years.
Mixed Expectations From Analysts and Team Leadership
Despite cautious optimism within the team, outside voices remain skeptical about Dallas’ potential this year. Sports commentator Chris Broussard voiced a tempered prediction for the Cowboys’ 2025 chances, stating,
“Absolute ceiling is Wild Card and a playoff victory, if they meet the NFC South,”
while adding,
“I’m not predicting that. I think a more realistic ceiling is Wild Card, and you lose your 1st playoff game.”
These assessments reflect the challenges Dallas faces in overcoming historical playoff struggles.
Meanwhile, Prescott himself maintains a confident outlook. When questioned about his bold remarks to Rams owner Stan Kroenke, where he floated the possibility of a Cowboys-Rams <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/nfc/”>NFC Championship showdown, Prescott’s optimism persisted despite criticism from pundits. This confidence highlights the internal belief that, with the right leadership and preparation, the Cowboys can outgrow past disappointments.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Hopes for the 2025 Season
As the Cowboys prepare for the regular season, much attention is focused on whether the team‘s new coaching regime and heated preseason developments can finally lead to postseason breakthroughs. Prescott’s managed preseason participation indicates a careful approach to maintaining his health and readiness. For fans, the recurring question remains whether 2025 will mark a turning point or become another year of unfulfilled potential. The team’s ability to gel under Schottenheimer’s guidance and navigate the challenges of the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL schedule will determine if Dallas can change its familiar narrative.