Interest is heating up between free agent quarterback Nick Foles and the Dallas Cowboys, who just lost backup Kellen Moore to a broken ankle.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, there is already “legitimate” and “mutual” interest between Foles and the Cowboys.
“It certainly seems they’re going to have to take a hard look at the veteran quarterback market, and the name to watch is Nick Foles,” Rapoport said on NFL Network Wednesday. “There is legitimate interest. I’m told (Foles) would be the name if they are going to bring in a backup.”
A deal could come together quick, especially with Moore—the planned backup behind Tony Romo for 2016—scheduled for surgery, which would likely keep him out three to four months.
“There is a lot of interest,” Rapoport said. “There’s interest in Foles in them. There’s a lot of mutual interest there for the Cowboys in Nick Foles.”
According to Rapoport, the Cowboys entertained the idea of trading for Foles when he was made available earlier this offseason.
Foles, 27, was finally released by the Los Angeles Rams last week.
Dallas currently has two other quarterbacks on the roster in rookie Dak Prescott and Jameill Showers. But neither appears to be a legitimate answer as a backup quarterback, even if Prescott—a fourth-round pick—is being groomed to taken the role at some point in the future.
Moore, a former undrafted free agent, played in three games and made two starts for the Cowboys last season. Romo, who turned 36 in April, missed 13 games after twice fracturing his collarbone.
Foles threw 27 touchdowns and two interceptions during a breakout season in 2013, but has since tossed 20 touchdowns and 20 interceptions over the last two seasons. The Philadelphia Eagles traded him to the Rams last offseason.
Foles is still unemployed and a perfect opportunity is now available in Dallas. It would be surprising if a deal between Foles and the Cowboys isn’t completed soon.