Cowboys HC Mike McCarthy has strangely optimistic take on QB Trey Lance

Trey Lance capped off the 2024 NFL preseason with an up-and-down game against the Los Angeles Chargers. While the Dallas Cowboys ultimately lost 26-19, Lance received a full slate of work, playing every snap under center. He completed 33-of-49 passes for 323 yards and rushed for 90 yards with two total touchdowns.

While Lance’s upside was apparent, though, he also threw five interceptions, which is the number that jumps out most in the box score.

Even with Lance’s five interceptions, Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy offered an extremely positive outlook on the former first-round draft pick after the game, as Jon Machota of The Athletic detailed.

“He continually gets better every time you give him a chance. I think that says a lot about him,” McCarthy said. “He’s just a young guy that needs to play. I think he’ll play in this league for a long time.”

Lance opened things up for the Cowboys offense in this game after throwing for 151 and 188 yards in extended action over the first two preseason games. If Lance can cut down the turnovers and continue to progress as a passer — he’s already shown his upside as a runner — he could put himself in an interesting position in terms of his NFL future.

While Lance is bound for the No. 3 quarterback job for the 2024 NFL season, how things play out for his future, whether with the Cowboys or elsewhere, will be a storyline worth watching down the line.