The former standout player for North Dakota State has two years left on his rookie deal. But Cowboys owner Jerry Jones doesn’t seem to be in favor of trading or releasing him.

“The ‘arrow is really up’ on backup QB Trey Lance, according to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones,” Dallas Morning News reporter Michael Gehlken wrote on X on March 1. He has exceeded expectations, both personally and professionally. Lance will face Cooper Rush in the race for Dak Prescott’s backup position. “He’s exactly what we hoped and planned for when we made the decision.”

Given that Lance hasn’t had many opportunities in Dallas, it’s intriguing that Jones thinks highly of him. Although Lance, a former No. 3 overall pick, is obviously talented and has potential, he has only made four starts since joining the league in 2021.

It’s nice to have someone like Lance as a backup, but the only drawback is the expense. Dallas will be paying a premium for Lance’s backup since the fourth year of his rookie contract is expected to bring him a hefty compensation rise.

The Cowboys acquired Lance in the offseason, aware that he would be an expensive developmental option. Dallas was able to acquire Lance for merely a fourth-round pick thanks to the San Francisco 49ers having found their quarterback in Brock Purdy and the consideration of Lance’s first-round rookie agreement.

The Cowboys will pay Lance a total of $5.3 million in 2024, according to Spotrac. That is a significant gain given that his contract only contributes to a $940,000 cap hit in 2023.

It matters even more given that the Cowboys are expected to pay $4 million more than the salary ceiling. Dallas will need to take a number of actions to straighten out their financial situation, and Lance’s $5.3 million salary charge is significant for a backup quarterback.

Despite their apparent interest in Lance, Dallas is not expected to exercise the fifth-year option on his deal, according to a recent report.

Lance’s agreement includes massive pay for his fifth-year option, just like other rookie contracts in the first round. Lance would be entitled to $22.4 million in 2025 if the Cowboys exercised their option. Though it’s an enticing figure, don’t expect it to happen.

The Cowboys do not intend to exercise the option, according to writer Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News. The team doesn’t want to pay for that option, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Lance isn’t in the fold for the future.

It will all come down to Lance after that. In 2025, he has the option to explore the free agency market or explore a new, more affordable contract with the Cowboys. Jerry Jones has extended an early olive branch in the event that a new contract is offered, given that they are prepared to pay him $5.3 million this season