Cooper Rush: An Underdog’s Rise in the NFL
Cooper Rush is a name that might not have been widely recognized when he entered the NFL, but over the years, he has steadily built a reputation as a dependable backup quarterback with a knack for stepping up when his team needs him most.
Early Life and College Career
Cooper Rush was born on November 21, 1993, in Charlotte, Michigan. He attended Lansing Catholic High School, where he played football and earned recognition for his strong arm and leadership skills. After high school, Rush continued his football journey at Central Michigan University.
At Central Michigan, Rush played for the Chippewas from 2013 to 2016. During his time there, he developed into one of the best quarterbacks in the program’s history. In 2015, he led the Chippewas to a Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship and a victory in the 2015 Bahamas Bowl. Over the course of his college career, Rush amassed over 12,000 passing yards and 90 touchdowns. His impressive college career helped him draw attention from NFL scouts, despite playing for a smaller school and facing questions about his ability to transition to the professional level.
Entering the NFL
Rush went undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft, which could have been a significant setback for most players. However, he signed with the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent. Rush spent his rookie year on the Cowboys’ practice squad, learning the ropes behind established stars like Dak Prescott and Tony Romo.
His ability to quickly pick up the Cowboys’ offensive scheme, combined with his calm demeanor and intelligence, made him a reliable backup quarterback. He remained with the Cowboys throughout the 2017 and 2018 seasons, honing his skills and becoming a familiar presence on the sidelines.
Stepping In as a Starter
Cooper Rush’s moment to shine came in the 2021 season. In Week 8, Dak Prescott suffered a calf injury, which sidelined him for a crucial game against the Minnesota Vikings. Rush, who had been with the Cowboys for years and had minimal starting experience, was thrust into the starting role.
In an unexpected turn, Rush led the Cowboys to a thrilling 20-16 victory over the Vikings. He threw for 325 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-winning pass to Amari Cooper. Rush’s performance was a testament to his preparation, poise under pressure, and ability to execute when called upon. The victory was particularly impressive given the fact that Rush had never started a regular-season game before that point.
Following the Vikings game, Rush became a fan favorite in Dallas. While he was not expected to replace Prescott long-term, he showed that he was capable of holding down the fort in difficult circumstances. His victory against Minnesota was the highlight of his career up to that point and showcased his potential as a backup quarterback in the NFL.
Characteristics and Playing Style
Cooper Rush is not a quarterback known for blazing speed or flashy athleticism, but rather for his strong football IQ and accuracy. He is a traditional pocket passer who can make all the throws when given time. His ability to read defenses, avoid mistakes, and make clutch throws is what has made him an asset to the Cowboys when Prescott has been unavailable.
Rush’s leadership and work ethic have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. Despite being a backup quarterback, he has embraced his role with the Cowboys and remained ready for any opportunity to contribute. His ability to stay calm and focused, even in high-pressure situations, sets him apart from many of his peers.
The Future
As of now, Cooper Rush continues to serve as a backup quarterback with the Cowboys, providing valuable depth behind Dak Prescott. Although his time as a starter may be limited, Rush’s resilience and dedication have earned him a respected place in the NFL. Whether or not he gets another opportunity to start remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Cooper Rush has proved that he is capable of more than just being a backup. His time in the NFL is a reminder that, sometimes, the underdog story is the one that ends up being the most inspiring.
In a league that often sees quarterbacks rise and fall in the blink of an eye, Rush’s journey shows the importance of perseverance, hard work, and the ability to make the most of every opportunity.
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