Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush has been playing a pivotal role in the team’s success this season, and his efforts are set to earn him a significant financial reward. Rush has already hit one performance-based incentive, earning a $250,000 bonus for playing 45% of the snaps. With 52.3% of the snaps under his belt this season, he’s now just a few steps away from hitting the 55% threshold, which would add another $250,000 to his bank account. When asked about his awareness of the situation, Rush chuckled and confirmed that he knows how close he is to the incentive.
Rush was selected as the backup quarterback behind Dak Prescott to start the 2024 season, beating out Trey Lance during the preseason. His role quickly changed, however, after Prescott was sidelined with a hamstring injury in Week 9. With Prescott out, Rush took over as the Cowboys’ starting quarterback starting in Week 10.
Rush’s performance in the absence of Prescott has been nothing short of impressive. He earned his first win of the season in Week 12 against the Washington Commanders, completing 24 of 32 passes for 247 yards, two touchdowns, and no turnovers in a 34-26 victory. His Thanksgiving performance was also stellar, throwing for 195 yards and a touchdown, helping the Cowboys extend their win streak against the New York Giants to eight games in a 27-20 victory.
Perhaps Rush’s most memorable moment of the season came in Week 15 when he threw a career-high three touchdown passes in a dominant 30-14 win over the Carolina Panthers. His leadership and playmaking ability have kept the Cowboys in contention during Prescott’s absence.
Prescott’s injury occurred in Week 9 during a 27-21 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The initial diagnosis revealed that Prescott had suffered a partial avulsion of his right hamstring, a significant injury that required surgery. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones confirmed on November 12 that Prescott would miss the remainder of the season following the procedure, leaving Rush to continue as the team’s starting quarterback.
As Rush continues to lead the Cowboys in Prescott’s absence, his performance not only affects the team’s playoff hopes but also positions him to secure additional financial incentives. Given his solid play and the crucial role he’s played this season, Rush is proving that his spot as the backup quarterback may be more valuable than anyone initially expected.