Will Grier’s Preseason Audition: Can the Cowboys’ QB3 Forge a New Path to NFL Relevance?
The Dallas Cowboys’ preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams isn’t just about shaking off the rust; for players on the fringes, it’s a high-stakes audition for their NFL futures. While the spotlight often shines on established stars or promising backups like Joe Milton III, it’s the deeper quarterback ranks, particularly players like Will Grier, who might have the most to gain from these exhibition games. This isn’t just about securing a roster spot; it’s about rebuilding value in a league that constantly churns talent.
The Unseen Stakes for Quarterback Depth
Saturday night’s matchup in Los Angeles marks the official kickoff of the Cowboys’ preseason slate. With starters expected to see minimal, if any, action, the game becomes a crucial platform for evaluating the players further down the depth chart. For Dallas, this means a significant opportunity for their backup and third-string quarterbacks to make a lasting impression.
While many fans will be keenly observing Joe Milton III in his debut as the presumed primary backup, the conversation around quarterback potential in Dallas is complex. According to Bleacher Report’s Tired Moton, it’s the quarterback currently positioned as QB3, Will Grier, who possesses a unique opportunity to significantly alter his career trajectory.
Grier’s Crossroads: Trade Stock vs. Roster Spot
With Milton seemingly stepping into the backup role, Grier’s situation takes on a different dimension. Moton suggests that the preseason offers Grier a chance to “improve his trade stock.” This means his performances will be scrutinized not just by the Cowboys’ coaching staff, but by every other NFL team looking for experienced reserve quarterback talent.
This is Grier’s chance to audition for a league-wide audience, presenting himself as a viable option for teams in need of a seasoned backup. His journey has been one of resilience, marked by stops with various organizations. Dallas signed him to their practice squad last November under former head coach Mike McCarthy. Now, with Brian Schottenheimer elevated to offensive coordinator, there’s a potential for a fresh perspective on the team’s quarterback hierarchy.
Assessing the Quarterback Landscape
The narrative often pits Grier against Milton, and the physical profiles are distinct. Milton is generally viewed as the more athletic option, possessing a stronger arm and mobility. Grier, on the other hand, is described as having an “average arm” and not posing a significant threat with his legs. However, football is a game of more than just raw physical tools.
Grier’s history includes being a third-round pick for the Carolina Panthers in 2019. His rookie year saw him throw for 228 yards, though without any touchdown passes and with four interceptions. Since then, he has yet to see regular-season action. Despite this, he has shown flashes of sharpness during his time with the Cowboys in practice and past opportunities.
The unique aspect of Grier’s recent career is his time with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024, where he received a Super Bowl ring. While his on-field contributions to that championship run were minimal, the experience of being part of a winning culture and seeing how a championship organization operates can be invaluable.
Beyond the Numbers: What the Preseason Means for Grier
The upcoming preseason games are more than just exhibition contests for Will Grier; they represent a critical juncture in his NFL career. In a league where quarterback depth is always in demand, a strong showing could parlay into a starting role on another team or a more secure position within Dallas. His ability to manage the offense, make smart decisions, and deliver accurate passes under pressure will be paramount.
The shift in coaching philosophy under Schottenheimer could also play a role. Different offensive coordinators have different evaluations of quarterback skill sets. Grier’s ability to adapt to the current offensive scheme and demonstrate his understanding of the playbook will be key indicators.
Consider the broader trend in the NFL: teams are increasingly valuing experienced backups who can step in seamlessly if needed. Grier, despite his limited regular-season statistics, has spent time in multiple NFL systems and gained valuable practice experience. This seasoning could be exactly what another team is looking for.
Future Implications: The Evolving Role of the QB3
The situation with Will Grier highlights a broader trend within the NFL regarding quarterback depth. As teams increasingly focus on developing franchise quarterbacks, the importance of reliable backups and developmental prospects who can be traded or utilized as valuable depth pieces grows. A strong preseason performance by Grier could influence not only his future with the Cowboys but also the market for quarterbacks with similar career paths.
This preseason audition isn’t just about impressing the Cowboys; it’s about demonstrating his readiness to lead an NFL offense, even in a reserve capacity. For teams struggling with quarterback consistency or looking for a stable presence behind their starter, Grier could represent a low-risk, potentially high-reward acquisition. His ability to leverage this opportunity could redefine his NFL narrative.
What are your predictions for Will Grier’s preseason performance? Will he leverage this chance to significantly improve his trade value or secure a more prominent role in Dallas? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
