Jaylon Smith: 'You see a fire' in DiNucci's eyes
The Dallas Cowboys could be down to their third-string quarterback Sunday night, but the team remains confident in Ben DiNucci.
"Slinger. Full of confidence. You see a fire in his eyes. We believe in our brother," linebacker Jaylon Smith said Thursday when asked what he's seen from DiNucci in practice, according to The Athletic's Jon Machota.
A seventh-round pick in 2020, DiNucci replaced Andy Dalton during last Sunday's game against the Washington Football Team after the veteran suffered a concussion. DiNucci went 2-of-3 passing, but he was also sacked three times.
Dalton participated in meetings Thursday. However, he hasn't returned to practice and remains in the concussion protocol, according to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News. Consequently, DiNucci is receiving first-team reps, and receiver Michael Gallup has been impressed with the rookie's arm.
“He’s been slinging that thing. He’s got a little speed on that ball. It gets on you quick," Gallup said, according to Machota.
DiNucci wasn't expected to get any significant playing time this season, but with Dalton's status uncertain and Dak Prescott out for the year, there may be a lot riding on his shoulders.
The 2-5 Cowboys are off to a disappointing start and are preparing to face the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football. If he's called on, DiNucci is confident he can perform well under the prime-time lights.
“This is every kid’s dream, getting a chance to be the starting quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys. What more could you want?" he said.