The Dallas Cowboys are always determined to stay relevant, and one of the easiest ways to do so is by having a big-name quarterback.
Cowboys QB Dak Prescott is one of the most inconsistent in the NFL, but in 2023, he had an MVP-caliber campaign. However, an injury-ridden 2024 puts pressure on Prescott to succeed during the 2025 season.
If he fails to do so, the Cowboys may look to cut ties with him, paving the way to select a potential superstar quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Dallas Cowboys Already Predicted To Select Texas QB Arch Manning
Assuming one of Jerry Jones’ top priorities is remaining in the spotlight, look no further than Texas quarterback Arch Manning, the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning.
PFSN’s Kyle Soppe boldly predicts the Cowboys to lose 12 games next year, opening the door to select Manning in the 2026 NFL Draft.
“Dallas will struggle to reach six wins under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Following a 7-10 record in 2024, the team faces several challenges, including limited salary cap space and a reluctance to sign free agents. These issues will likely leave the Cowboys with a high draft pick in 2026, setting the stage for them to target Arch Manning,” Soppe wrote.
“The season could get off to a rocky start, much like in 2024, with a significant holdout from star linebacker Micah Parsons as he negotiates a long-term extension. Parsons could miss most of training camp, similar to CeeDee Lamb, and may not have enough time to familiarize himself with new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus’ system.”
While Soppe did not specify how Dallas’ front office will move Prescott, his lucrative contract makes it rather obvious he won’t be on the roster in this scenario.
The Cowboys gave Prescott a record four-year, $240 million deal. His average annual value (AAV) is a whopping $60 million, which is $5 million more than the next-closest player. The deal features $231 million in guaranteed money, just beating out Cleveland Browns QB Deshaun Watson for the most ever.
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This new contract takes effect in 2025, as Prescott was playing on the final year of his previous deal (a four-year, $160 million pact) this past season. The deal keeps Prescott with the Cowboys through the 2028 season, but there is a potential out after the 2027 campaign.
Manning has not had a true shot to prove himself as a potential superstar quarterback, but the Cowboys’ failure to meet expectations with Prescott once again could lead to a major shakeup.
Throughout his first years at Texans, Manning has thrown 95 pass attempts for 969 yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions while also rushing for 115 yards and four touchdowns.
The sophomore put together an eyebrow-raising performance against UTSA after relieving Quinn Ewers in 2024. This included a 67-yard touchdown run, displaying his ability to turn on the jets.
At 6’4″ and weighing 225 pounds, Manning has the ideal physique to play quarterback at the pro level. He also seems to have no issues being a mobile quarterback and making off-platform plays, in contrast to his more measured uncles, Peyton and Eli Manning.
Manning’s raw talent is impressive, and he’ll have a terrific opportunity to prove himself next season at Texas with Ewers entering the 2025 NFL Draft.
