Cowboys To Waive QB Joe Milton

The Cowboys have Sam Howell in place as Dak Prescott‘s backup. Howell and Milton waged a monthslong battle for the QB2 gig, with a decision now being made. This is the corresponding move to Dallas’ waiver claim of running back Emari Demercado.

By the end of the second week of preseason action, head coach Brian Schottenheimer noted both Milton and Howell had drawn strong evaluations from the Cowboys staff. Both passers survived roster cuts yesterday, suggesting Dallas would be among the teams carrying three passers to begin the season. Instead, Milton is headed to the waiver wire.

After entering the league as a sixth-round pick in 2024, Milton made one regular-season appearance for New England. The arrival of Mike Vrabel and a new coaching staff saw his Patriots tenure come an end in short order, with a trade to the Cowboys taking place. In 2025, Milton only handled 51 snaps with Prescott enjoying a healthy campaign.

Two years remain on Milton’s rookie contract. The 26-year-old could be seen as an attractive backup/developmental option for teams short on depth under center, so a claim will be worth watching for. In the event Milton passes through waivers, he will become a free agent. A return to Dallas via the practice squad would come as no surprise.

Howell served as a full-time starter for Washington in 2023. Since then, however, he has made just two regular-season appearances (and no starts). Dallas will hoping for a high floor at the QB2 spot for the coming season with Howell, 26 next month, in the fold.

Adam La Rose contributed to this post.