Trey Lance to get significant reps in Cowboys’ regular-season finale vs. Commanders, per report

In a surprising move, the Dallas Cowboys are reportedly planning to give quarterback Trey Lance significant playing time in their regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders. While the Cowboys have already clinched a playoff spot, their decision to feature Lance has sparked interest around the league and raised questions about their long-term plans at the quarterback position.

This game offers a unique opportunity for Lance, the former No. 3 overall pick, to showcase his development since being traded to Dallas earlier in the season. With the Commanders also in playoff contention, the matchup carries weight for both teams, adding intrigue to Lance’s performance under pressure.

The Cowboys’ Quarterback Situation

The Cowboys have relied on veteran Dak Prescott as their starter for several years, and Prescott has enjoyed a strong 2025 campaign, leading Dallas to an impressive 11-5 record. However, the acquisition of Trey Lance during the offseason hinted at the team’s interest in exploring alternatives or developing a potential successor.

Lance, who was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, has faced a tumultuous start to his NFL career. Injuries and inconsistent play limited his opportunities in San Francisco, and he was eventually traded to Dallas for a mid-round draft pick. Since joining the Cowboys, Lance has primarily served as the backup quarterback, seeing limited action in relief roles.

Why Now?

With the Cowboys locked into their playoff seeding, head coach Mike McCarthy sees Week 18 as an ideal opportunity to evaluate Lance in a live-game setting. According to reports, McCarthy has been impressed with Lance’s progress in practice and believes the 23-year-old quarterback deserves a chance to showcase his skills.

“Trey’s been working hard all season, and this is a good chance for him to get meaningful reps,” McCarthy said during a press conference. “We want to see how he handles a full game situation.”

This approach also serves as a precautionary measure. Should Prescott suffer an injury during the playoffs, the Cowboys need confidence in their backup quarterback. Lance’s performance against Washington could go a long way in determining whether he’s ready to handle such a role.

What’s at Stake for Lance?

For Lance, this game is about more than just a potential win for the Cowboys. It’s a chance to prove he still has the potential that made him a top-three draft pick just a few years ago. While his time in San Francisco didn’t pan out as expected, a strong performance against the Commanders could reshape the narrative around his career.

Opportunities:

Showcasing Growth: Lance has had several months to work with the Cowboys’ coaching staff and adapt to their system. This game will test whether that work translates to on-field success.
Establishing Value: Whether in Dallas or elsewhere, Lance’s performance could influence his future. Teams around the league will take note if he plays well, potentially opening doors for starting opportunities down the line.
Building Confidence: A strong outing could do wonders for Lance’s confidence after a rocky start to his NFL journey.

Challenges Lance Faces

The Commanders boast a formidable defense, led by their strong front seven and opportunistic secondary. Facing such a unit will be no easy task, especially for a quarterback with limited live-game experience this season. Lance will need to:

Handle Pressure: Washington’s pass rush, spearheaded by Montez Sweat and Jonathan Allen, will aim to disrupt Lance’s rhythm.
Avoid Turnovers: Decision-making will be critical, as the Commanders’ defense thrives on capitalizing on mistakes.
Adapt on the Fly: As Lance shakes off rust, he’ll need to make quick adjustments to the speed and complexity of an NFL game.

Implications for the Cowboys

The decision to play Lance in a high-stakes game raises questions about the Cowboys’ long-term quarterback strategy. While Prescott remains the unquestioned starter, Dallas’s investment in Lance suggests they are thinking ahead.

Short-Term Benefits:

Insurance Policy: A prepared Lance gives the Cowboys a reliable backup option for the playoffs.
Depth Evaluation: The game provides valuable insight into the quarterback depth chart heading into the postseason.

Long-Term Considerations:

Succession Planning: If Lance excels, it could influence how the Cowboys approach Prescott’s contract, which carries a significant cap hit in the coming years.
Trade Value: Alternatively, a strong performance by Lance could boost his trade value, giving Dallas flexibility in future roster moves.

The Matchup: Cowboys Offense vs. Commanders Defense

Lance’s performance will depend on more than just his individual ability—it will also hinge on how well the Cowboys’ offense supports him.

Strengths:

Running Game: Dallas’s ground attack, led by Tony Pollard, can take pressure off Lance by keeping the Commanders’ defense honest.
Weapons in the Passing Game: With targets like CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks, Lance has the tools to succeed if he can make accurate throws.

Challenges:

Commanders’ Defense: Washington ranks among the league’s top units in sacks and takeaways, making it essential for Lance to stay poised under duress.