In a surprising roster adjustment, the Dallas Cowboys waived backup quarterback Joe Milton on Monday, clearing the path for Sam Howell to serve as the primary backup behind starter Dak Prescott, according to multiple reports. The transaction arrives just a day after Milton secured a spot on the team’s initial 53-man roster, ending an intense summer competition in North Texas.
Preseason Standout Cleared from Dallas Roster
Milton’s departure caught observers off guard after a strong summer campaign. The third-year quarterback logged 271 passing yards and two touchdowns across three preseason appearances, showcasing his well-known arm strength and timely accuracy. Earlier in August, head coach Brian Schottenheimer described the battle for the QB2 job between Milton and Howell as neck-and-neck. However, roster math intervened on Monday when Dallas claimed running back Emari Demercado off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs, necessitating a corresponding roster cut. Rather than keeping three quarterbacks or trading Milton, the Cowboys opted to waive the 2024 sixth-round pick out of Tennessee.
Sam Howell Secures the Backup Role Behind Dak Prescott
With Milton on the waiver wire, Sam Howell steps into the undisputed backup role for Dallas. Howell put together a solid preseason finale on Friday against the New Orleans Saints, completing 12 of 18 passes for 155 yards and two fourth-quarter touchdown passes in a 27-24 loss. Milton struggled slightly in that same contest, finishing 8 of 15 for 92 yards. Barring any further roster churn, Howell will hold clipboard duties when the Cowboys kick off their regular season on Sunday Night Football against the New York Giants on Sept. 13.
Waiver Wire Interest and Next Steps for Milton
Because the transaction occurred after NFL teams finalized initial rosters and processed initial waiver claims, league analysts note that Milton could draw outside interest or potentially return to Dallas if he clears waivers unclaimed.
The Cowboys return to the practice field this week to begin game-week preparations for their upcoming season opener against the Giants.
