Cowboys HC raves about QB Trey Lance's progress after solid showing in second preseason game

"Two 14-play drives, that's incredible for preseason football," Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy said of Lance, via The Athletic's Saad Yousuf. "He just needs reps. He needs to play in live games, particularly in the drop-back phase, because he's doing a very good job managing everything else. I thought he clearly took a step today."

The Cowboys need Lance to keep taking these steps, especially as the club faces uncertainty about its future at the most important position. 

Starting QB Dak Prescott is entering the final year of a four-year, $160M contract. On Thursday, Prescott told ESPN's Todd Archer that contract talks with the Cowboys are on the "right way" but didn't clarify whether he'll sign an extension at some point.

It's worth mentioning Cowboys backup QB Cooper Rush — who is 5-1 in the regular season in seven seasons with the club — has one year remaining on his contract. 

Prescott leaving Dallas and playing elsewhere in 2025 seems like a strong possibility if he doesn't sign a new deal soon. The jury is still out on whether Lance could step in and replace Prescott.

In two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, the former No. 3 overall pick went 2-2 as a starter, completing 54.9 percent of his passes for 797 yards, five TDs and three interceptions. However, 24-year-old Lance is still an intriguing developmental QB, as he has prototypical size (6-foot-4, 227 pounds) and solid athleticism.

Of course, Lance must continue refining his skill set, but at least he's showing signs of improvement and gaining the trust of the coaching staff.