Following the waiver process, Milton expressed that the release came as a surprise. He described the cut as “shocking” and noted that his return to the organization was heavily influenced by the relationships he has developed within the building, with Prescott among the most impactful. Milton maintained a positive outlook, asserting confidence in his abilities: “I’m still the best quarterback in my eyes. It is what it is. It’s something you got to live with and take to the chin.”
Joe Milton III’s roster status and return to the practice squad became a talking point as speculation swirled about the team’s quarterback depth. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spoke about Milton’s contributions, highlighting his strong performance during training camp and the preseason. Jones indicated that Milton’s play suggested he was improving compared to the previous year, something that the organization valued as it evaluated backup quarterback options for the season. In Jones’ assessment, the team had “real talent” available at the backup position and the potential to have multiple options as the season progressed.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer echoed the sentiment that Milton’s return would be highly advantageous. Before final cuts, Schottenheimer had expressed a strong desire to bring Milton back, mentioning that the team would allow Milton to weigh his options. This perspective underscored the Cowboys’ intent to bolster their depth at quarterback and maintain flexibility throughout the campaign.
Milton’s preseason performance gave more context to the decision. Across three exhibition games, he completed 29 of 43 attempts for 378 yards, threw three touchdowns, and recorded zero interceptions, posting a passer rating of 118.2—slightly higher than Howell’s preseason numbers. Milton demonstrated big-play ability, including a 53-yard touchdown connection with Jonathan Mingo and a 70-yard hookup with Camden Brown, traits that have characterized his game since college. Howell, who enters the regular season with 18 career starts, finished the preseason strong as well, completing 12 of 18 passes for 155 yards and two touchdowns against New Orleans. The evaluators cited Howell’s grasp of the offense and his efficiency in progressing through reads as key factors in his favor.
In terms of regular-season NFL experience, Milton’s time with Dallas was relatively limited. He appeared in four games during the 2025 season without starting a game, completing 15 of 24 passes for 183 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions while contributing primarily in mop-up duty. Milton’s background includes an upbringing in Pahokee, Florida, and a familial connection to former NFL receiver Anquan Boldin. His college career began at Michigan before transferring to Tennessee, where he posted strong numbers as a senior, throwing for 2,769 yards with 20 touchdowns against five interceptions.
The 2024 draft brought Milton to the league when the New England Patriots selected him in the sixth round, 193rd overall. His rookie action came in Week 18, delivering 241 passing yards and a touchdown in a victory over Buffalo. The Patriots later traded Milton to Dallas in April, sending a fifth-round pick in exchange for a seventh-round selection. Across five career NFL games, Milton has completed 37 of 53 passes for 424 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions, posting a 90.4 passer rating.
As the Cowboys navigated their quarterback depth chart, Milton’s development and versatility were repeatedly cited as assets. The organization emphasized the value of having options at the position, particularly as the season unfolds and circumstances require adaptable game plans. While Milton’s future with Dallas has included twists, the backing of the coaching staff and ownership underscored a clear interest in keeping him within the fold on the practice squad, where he can continue to grow and contribute in case opportunities arise.
Milton’s journey remains a point of interest for fans and analysts who monitor quarterback development and roster construction. His preseason efficiency and demonstrated arm talent keep him in the conversation as a potential contributor down the line, especially if injuries or performance shifts alter the Cowboys’ quarterback landscape. For now, Milton remains under contract on the practice squad, with the organization weighing how best to leverage his strengths as they prepare for the regular season and beyond.
