Cowboys Exec: We'd Love to Have Andy Dalton Return

Dak Prescott has missed most of the season with a broken ankle, but he remains the Dallas Cowboys' future. Still, Andy Dalton has filled in admirably, when healthy himself.

Dalton has played like a seasoned veteran, a former starter who is still OK serving as the backup on a winning team. Of course, the Cowboys aren't a winning team this season, but that's largely because of their defense.

Anyway, Dalton will be a free agent at season's end, and the Cowboys sound interested in keeping him on the roster to fill in for Prescott as needed in the future.

"I think he’s done a great job, especially when you look at the challenges we’ve had there in our offensive line," Cowboys executive VP Stephen Jones told 105.3 The Fan in Dallas.

Later, Jones added that Dalton has played with poise and that despite a 5-9 record, the Cowboys remain in the playoff hunt. They trail NFC East-leading Washington (6-8) by just a game, with two to go. Dalton and the Cowboys have also won two straight, putting themselves right back in the mix.

“I think, as we’ve gotten better, certainly Andy is getting more confidence,” Jones said. "We’re protecting the ball well. We’re not turning it over. He’s doing a great job, and certainly, we’d love to have him back.”

Dalton will "certainly" draw some interest this offseason. But if he can't compete for a starting job, it may be best for him to return to a place where he knows he is already wanted and appreciated. And who knows? Maybe the Cowboys will return to the playoffs with him directing the offense. That would lead to a bigger payday, too.