Cowboys Want Milton Back on Practice Squad After Waiver Claim Fails
Joe Milton went unclaimed on waivers after the Cowboys released him, and both COO Stephen Jones and coach Brian Schottenheimer expressed interest in bringing him back via the practice squad. Dallas chose Sam Howell as the backup to Dak Prescott, citing Howell's better execution of the offense. Milton had a strong preseason, completing 67.4% of his passes for 378 yards.
The Cowboys’ decision to keep Sam Howell as Dak Prescott’s backup came after a tight preseason competition, with both quarterbacks posting nearly identical completion rates and touchdown totals. Dallas initially carried three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, but the waiver claim of running back Emari Demercado forced a roster crunch, leading to Milton’s release. Milton went unclaimed, clearing the path for a practice squad return.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer called the choice “very, very hard,” while COO Stephen Jones echoed interest in retaining Milton’s development. Milton served as Prescott’s backup in 2025, and the team’s history of grooming him suggests a practice squad stint could keep him in the system. Dallas opens its season Sept. 13 against the Giants, with Howell now locked in as QB2.
This roster move could affect the Cowboys’ quarterback depth and long-term planning, as Milton’s raw talent may attract interest from other teams if he clears waivers again. Fans and analysts may debate whether Howell’s experience outweighs Milton’s upside, but the practice squad route offers Dallas flexibility without immediate risk. The decision also highlights how waiver claims can ripple through roster construction, potentially influencing team chemistry and backup stability during a long season.