Cowboys make unexpected decision with much-hyped quarterback

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Cowboys make unexpected decision with much-hyped quarterback

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Aug 31, 2026 5:02 PM ET

Joe Milton has drawn rave reviews as a backup quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys. Now the team is risking losing him by putting him on waivers.

The Cowboys placed Milton on waivers Monday, one day after keeping him on their final 53-man roster. Dallas needed his roster spot after claiming running back Emari Demercado from the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Cowboys still hope to add Milton to their practice squad if he clears waivers.

this is the #Cowboys corresponding move to claiming Emari Demercado.

if Milton clears waivers, the plan is to add him to the practice squad (there are a few seats left). https://t.co/Pwy7Nz875a
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) August 31, 2026

Milton was hugely impressive in the Cowboys’ first two preseason games and was thought to be the favorite to win the No. 2 quarterback job behind Dak Prescott. He was less impressive in the finale, which apparently cost him the role to Sam Howell.

Milton is known for having one of the biggest arms in the NFL, and has flashed the ability to make impressive plays during his short NFL career. His experience in competitive games is limited, but it is still a surprise that the Cowboys would risk losing him at this point.

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