Overview
- Joe Milton has emerged as a preseason breakout, completing 21 of 28 passes for 286 yards, three touchdowns, no interceptions and a 142.9 rating over two exhibition games.
- Coach Brian Schottenheimer described the competition as “neck and neck,” saying both Milton and Sam Howell have shown they can serve as Dak Prescott’s backup.
- Sam Howell’s one‑year fully guaranteed $2.5 million contract increases the chance Dallas keeps him on the 53‑man roster rather than risk losing him on waivers.
- The Cowboys must decide whether to carry two or three quarterbacks by the NFL 53‑man deadline on Sunday, August 30, a choice that could free a mid‑round draft pick if Milton is traded.
- Analysts are split on the likely outcome, with some projecting Milton as a tradable asset (market talk as high as a fourth‑round pick) and others expecting Dallas to retain Howell for insurance, a dispute that leaves the decision unresolved heading into the final preseason game.