Backup QB Trey Lance plays the role of Lamar Jackson as the Cowboys prepare for the Ravens' two-time MVP

FRISCO – In the NFL’s 53-man roster, everyone has a role to play.

Cowboys backup quarterback Trey Lance was given a supporting role as a two-time NFL MVP.

Lance has spent the week leading up to the Cowboys' game against the Ravens on Sunday playing the role of Lamar Jackson for the Dallas scout team, preparing the Cowboys' defense for what they might expect when facing Jackson.

Lance, who ran a 4.69-second 40 at the NFL Combine, is the Cowboys' quarterback closest to elite mobile threat Jackson.

“I’m just trying [the defense] the best look I can,” Lance said on Thursday. “Of course [Jackson is] a super talented guy who can move really well.”

Jackson is the reigning NFL MVP after his phenomenal 2023 season. He has thrown for 3,678 yards and 24 touchdowns and has added another 821 yards (and five touchdowns) on the ground. Jackson, also the 2019 MVP, runs a 4.34-second 40 minute time and has an innate ability to extend the game and wreak havoc on NFL defenses.

The typical 2.3 seconds an NFL QB has in the pocket when he drops back to pass?

“It’s about a 6.8 [vs. Jackson]”said Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy.

However, Lance is also known for his speed, so the fourth-year quarterback from North Dakota State is the Dallas defense's “Lamar Jackson replacement” as they prepare to face the 0-2 Ravens. He's the obvious choice for that role among the Cowboys' quarterbacks, as Dak Prescott has his hands full with the offense and backup Cooper Rush isn't exactly a speed freak.

“Cooper Rush is trying,” McCarthy joked on Thursday. “Trey is doing well, but yeah, we're trying, [the Ravens’ offense] the best we can. I thought Trey did a really good job. [Wednesday]And [Thursday] that is something we will promote in the search for our defense.”

So, how is Lance, who is playing the role of Jackson at the Cowboys' practice this week?”

“My best,” Lance said simply. “I'm just trying to give the guys a good look.”

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