Dallas Cowboys: 5 offseason needs in 2019

4. Backup quarterback

There’s no question that Dak Prescott is the Cowboys’ franchise quarterback. Things behind him are pretty unsettled in Big D. Turning to Cooper Rush for any meaningful action would likely end Dallas’ hopes of reaching the Super Bowl in 2019.

It’s important to note that much of the Cowboys’ increased offensive success late in 2018 came when Prescott was allowed to make more plays from the pocket. His ability to run is a huge boost to an offense that’s short on play makers, but it does put Prescott at a higher risk of injury. Every time he takes off on a run downfield he opens himself up to a hit that could end his season.

That makes the prudent plan for the Cowboys to find a more accomplished or talented signal caller to serve as Prescott’s backup next year. Dallas could choose to spend a mid-round pick on a quarterback they think can grow into a quality NFL starter or they can spend a little bit of cash on a quality free agent backup. Either way, the organization needs to invest some capital in an insurance plan for Prescott.

Signing a backup quarterback isn’t going to be the sexiest move of Dallas’ offseason, but it is a transaction that can drastically raise the floor for this team in 2019. Garrett will hope he’s never forced to rely on a quarterback other than Prescott, but that’s more of a dream than an actual plan.