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Joe Milton III is no longer on the Dallas Cowboys’ roster after the team waived the quarterback Monday, Aug. 31, while finalizing its 53-man squad for the 2026 NFL season. The move clears space for running back Emari Demercado, who was claimed off waivers from the Arizona Cardinals.
The decision was notable because Milton had delivered an impressive preseason and had served as Dak Prescott’s backup in 2025. Instead, the Cowboys selected Sam Howell to occupy the No. 2 quarterback role behind Prescott.
Joe Milton Waived After Explosive Cowboys Preseason
Milton appeared to strengthen his case during the preseason, completing 29 of 43 passes for 378 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. The Cowboys had publicly praised his progress, particularly his improved accuracy and understanding of the offensive system.
His performance made the quarterback decision more competitive than expected. Milton showed flashes of arm strength and playmaking ability, while Howell also produced effectively in limited preseason action. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Dallas had trade conversations involving Milton before the roster deadline, but no deal materialized.
The Cowboys ultimately chose roster flexibility and experience over Milton’s promising preseason statistics. If Milton clears waivers, Dallas could still consider bringing him back to the practice squad, although it remains unclear whether the organization intends to do so.
Why Sam Howell Won the Backup Quarterback Job
Howell completed 27 of 40 preseason passes for 314 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. He also scored a rushing touchdown, giving the Cowboys another dimension at the position.
The biggest advantage for Howell was his professional experience. The quarterback has made 18 career starts, all coming with Washington during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. By comparison, Milton has appeared in five NFL games over two seasons without making a start.
That experience could be critical for Dallas if Prescott misses time. A backup quarterback must be prepared to step into a high-pressure role with little notice, and Howell’s previous starting experience apparently gave him an edge in the final evaluation.
- Sam Howell is now Dallas’ backup quarterback.
- Joe Milton III was waived on Aug. 31, 2026.
- Milton completed 29 of 43 preseason passes.
- Howell has 18 career NFL starts.
- Dallas added running back Emari Demercado from Arizona.
What the Joe Milton Decision Means for Dallas
The Cowboys’ decision carries both financial and developmental implications. Howell signed a one-year contract worth $2.5 million guaranteed. Had Dallas released him instead, the team would still have owed his $2 million base salary. Bringing him back to the practice squad would have added that salary to his guaranteed money.
Milton, meanwhile, offered a younger and potentially higher-upside option. His preseason production suggested that he had made meaningful strides since joining the NFL, but the Cowboys were unwilling to keep three quarterbacks while making room for Demercado.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer had indicated earlier Monday that the competition was still fluid. “We’re still piecing the puzzle together and that’s where this thing is very fluid,” Schottenheimer said before the final decision was announced.
That uncertainty lasted until the roster move became official. For now, Howell will back up Prescott, while Milton must wait to see whether another team claims him or whether Dallas offers him a return to the practice squad.
A Potential Opportunity Still Awaits Milton
Although being waived is a setback, Milton’s preseason tape could attract interest from teams searching for quarterback depth. His combination of size, arm talent and improved accuracy may make him a candidate for a practice-squad role elsewhere if he does not return to Dallas.
The Cowboys also face a familiar challenge: balancing immediate roster needs with long-term development. Milton’s strong exhibition numbers were encouraging, but Howell’s starting experience provided a safer option behind an established franchise quarterback in Prescott.
For Dallas, the priority is entering Week 1 with a dependable backup plan. For Milton, the next step will be determined by the waiver process and the interest generated by his performance. The quarterback’s path with the Cowboys has changed suddenly, but his NFL opportunity may not be over.
FAQs About Joe Milton and the Cowboys
Why did the Cowboys waive Joe Milton?
Dallas waived Joe Milton III to make room for running back Emari Demercado, who was claimed from the Arizona Cardinals. The Cowboys also favored Sam Howell’s experience as the backup quarterback.
Who is the Cowboys’ backup quarterback now?
Sam Howell is now the backup to Dak Prescott. Howell has 18 career NFL starts from his time with Washington.
How did Milton perform in the preseason?
Milton completed 29 of 43 passes for 378 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions during the preseason.
Can Milton return to Dallas?
Yes. If Milton clears waivers, the Cowboys could potentially sign him to their practice squad, though the team has not confirmed whether it plans to pursue that option.
