Cowboys Invite Veteran QB Ryan Tannehill to Tryouts to Bolster Backup Options for Dak Prescott
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Dallas, TX – June 28, 2025
The Dallas Cowboys are taking decisive action to strengthen their quarterback depth chart as they prepare for the 2025 season, inviting veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill to tryouts to enhance backup support for star Dak Prescott, sources revealed Saturday. The move comes amid growing concerns about the team’s secondary options behind their franchise leader.
Tannehill, 36, brings a wealth of experience and notable achievements to the table. Over his 12-year NFL career, primarily with the Tennessee Titans (2019-2022) and Miami Dolphins (2012-2018), he has thrown for 36,409 yards, 216 touchdowns, and 115 interceptions, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2019 and leading the Titans to the AFC Championship Game that year. His 2023 stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he started six games and posted a 3-3 record with 1,428 yards and 7 touchdowns, showcased his ability to step up when needed. “Ryan’s a proven leader with a strong arm,” said Cowboys COO Stephen Jones, hinting at the team’s interest in his veteran presence.
The invitation follows the departure of Cooper Rush to the Baltimore Ravens in free agency, leaving Will Grier and Joe Milton III as the current backups. With Prescott, 31, having missed significant time due to injuries over the past five seasons—including a hamstring issue in 2024—coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasized the need for reliability. “Dak’s our cornerstone, but we need a seasoned backup ready to perform,” Schottenheimer noted. Tannehill’s potential one-year deal, estimated at $2-3 million, fits within the Cowboys’ $32 million cap space, offering a cost-effective solution.
Tannehill’s tryout, scheduled for July 2, 2025, during OTAs, will assess his arm strength and decision-making under pressure. His 2023 PFF passing grade of 81.6 reflects solid performance, despite inconsistent team support. Fans on social media are optimistic, with posts like “Tannehill as QB2? Smart move!” and “Two-time Pro Bowler could save us if Dak goes down.”
This strategic move addresses depth concerns following Prescott’s 2024 injury, ensuring the offense remains competitive against NFC East rivals. For Tannehill, it’s a chance to prove he’s more than a stopgap—a veteran poised to protect Dallas’ Super Bowl aspirations. Stay tuned for updates as the Cowboys refine their roster.