Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott might not play on Sunday against the Vikings after all, due to a lingering calf issue.
Prescott missed most of last season with a broken ankle, so playing it safe makes the most sense for the Cowboys’ long-term interests.
Dak was listed as questionable on Friday, and his status for Sunday’s game was looking up given he participated in practice towards the end of the week.
The 28-year-old is dealing with a heavy heart off the field, as well, as he lost his grandmother this week. Prescott is officially a game-time decision, but per Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, his status is much more uncertain than that.
“It would surprise many close to situation if Cowboys QB Dak Prescott (calf) starts Sunday vs. Vikings. Officially a game-day decision, but Cooper Rush saw most meaningful reps of week. Prescott was in Orange, TX, Friday following grandmother’s passing. He traveled with team today,” Gehlken reported.
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“We’re obviously in our seventh game. There’s a ton of football left to play,” McCarthy said. “That’s definitely part of the decision, and we’re just giving him the time that’s needed to take it all in.”
Cooper Rush, meanwhile, is the backup. He doesn’t have much starting experience, but Rush is ready to step in. He’s been practicing with the starters all week.
“This is what you work for as a player,” Rush said. “This is what you want to do. You want to go out and play on Sunday. Your whole life you’ve been waiting to do it, and that’s what you work hard for to prepare for. So it would mean a lot to go out there with my teammates and keep this thing rolling like we’ve been.”
If necessary, Rush will step in.