
The Dallas Cowboys made a surprising decision involving their quarterback room this week, and there was another development involving Joe Milton on Wednesday.
Milton was not on the practice field as Dallas continued preparations for Sunday night’s NFC East matchup against the New York Giants.
According to longtime Cowboys reporter Calvin Watkins, Milton missed Wednesday’s practice because of a personal matter. The absence came shortly after Dallas made the decision to waive the 26-year-old quarterback.
“Cowboys QB Joe Milton missed practice today because of a personal issue, a source said,” Watkins reported on X.
It adds another development to what has already been an eventful week for Milton.
Cowboys QB Joe Milton missed practice today because of a personal issue, a source said.
— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) September 9, 2026
Dallas waived Milton as part of a roster maneuver, but the move did not necessarily signal the end of his time with the Cowboys.
The former Tennessee quarterback had been competing for a role behind Dak Prescott after joining Dallas following the beginning of his NFL career with the New England Patriots.
Milton’s combination of size and exceptional arm strength has made him an intriguing developmental quarterback. The Patriots selected him in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft after his college career included stops at Michigan and Tennessee.
His situation in Dallas has attracted additional attention because of the Cowboys’ decisions at backup quarterback.
Now, his absence from Wednesday’s practice adds another wrinkle.
There was no indication from Watkins that Milton’s personal issue was related to an injury, and no additional details regarding the matter were reported.
The timing comes as Dallas enters the final stages of preparation for its first game of the 2026 season.
The Cowboys visit the New York Giants on Sunday night, putting Dak Prescott and company immediately into an important divisional matchup.
For Milton, the immediate focus will be on what comes next following Dallas’ roster decision.
The Cowboys could potentially bring him back if he clears waivers, but his status will depend on how the roster situation unfolds.
Wednesday’s development, however, was straightforward: Milton wasn’t at practice because of a personal matter.
For a Cowboys quarterback room that has already undergone changes before Week 1, it’s another situation worth watching.
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