What are Cowboys’ best options at QB if Dak Prescott leaves?

A dilemma is brewing in Dallas. 

We all know the situation surrounding Dak Prescott and his contract saga, and the stakes are clear. At some point soon, we'll get an answer on what the Cowboys plan to do with their star quarterback as he enters the final year of his deal.

For his part, Prescott doesn't seem fazed. Asked about the situation Friday while attending an event benefitting the Children's Cancer Fund, Prescott said he's focused on the present — though he did allow for some hypothetical wiggle room.

"I don't have any fears," he said. "I'm not going to say I fear being here or not. I don't fear either situation, to be candid with you. I love this game. I love to play and love to better myself as a player and my teammates around me."

Having looked at Prescott's side last week, let's move the conversation forward. We know — roughly — what it'll look like if the Cowboys re-sign their current quarterback. Now, let's weigh the options if they don't.

It's a fitting time to consider this. I can't say I'd expect it to happen, but next week's NFL draft presents a timely opportunity for the Cowboys to signal their intent. With all the intrigue surrounding Prescott's situation, can you imagine the meltdown if this team used a big pick on a quarterback in the coming days?

Again, it's unlikely, but this is the stuff the Cowboys should be considering if they really do think they'll be without Prescott in 2025.

So, for the purposes of planning ahead, let's look at the possibilities, both right now and in the future, if Prescott signs elsewhere next spring and the Cowboys really do start a new era at quarterback. There are four realistic routes for the Cowboys to explore.

1. 2024 NFL Draft

You've likely already seen rumblings about