Cowboys' Dak Prescott out vs. Vikings with Injury; Cooper Rush to Start

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott will not play in Sunday's matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

Prescott was officially ruled out after Chris Mortensen of ESPN first reported Prescott's status, adding Cooper Rush will start under center.

Earlier Sunday, Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported Prescott would go through his normal pregame routine before it's determined whether he'll be able to suit up.

Prescott suffered a calf strain at the end of his team's Week 6 win over the New England Patriots, although head coach Mike McCarthy said he was "optimistic" the signal-caller wouldn't miss any time.

Prescott missed most of the 2020 season with a compound fracture and dislocation of his right ankle, appearing in just five games as the Cowboys struggled to a 6-10 record.

A shoulder issue also kept him out throughout the 2021 preseason, although he returned in time for Week 1.

Dallas was always going to be cautious with the two-time Pro Bowler after signing him to a four-year, $160 million extension in the offseason. The 5-1 Cowboys also already have a commanding lead in the NFC East, with the other three teams all sitting at 2-5 before Week 8's action.

The Mississippi State product remains an elite talent when healthy, entering the day with 1,813 yards and 16 touchdowns against four interceptions this season.

Rush, who will be starting the first game of his career, has completed just one pass on three attempts in four seasons with the Cowboys. Will Grier, who thew for 228 yards, zero touchdowns and four interceptions in two starts for the Carolina Panthers in 2019, will serve as his backup.