The Dallas Cowboys have waived quarterback Joe Milton as part of their roster finalization process. Milton joined the team in April 2025 after a trade that sent a fifth-round pick to the New England Patriots. He had been competing for the backup quarterback position against Sam Howell throughout the offseason.
Earlier on the same day, the Cowboys claimed running back Emari Demercado off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs, which necessitated the corresponding move of waiving Milton to make room on the 53-man roster.
During the 2026 preseason, Milton played in three games, completing 29 of 43 passes for 378 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions, along with 12 carries for 14 yards and one rushing touchdown.
Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer had previously expressed confidence in both Milton and Howell as capable backups. He recalled a conversation with Milton where the quarterback expressed self-belief despite the competition. Schottenheimer noted the challenges of learning the Cowboys' complex offensive system, which requires a high level of understanding from its quarterbacks.
Milton, reflecting on his time with the team, stated he felt more at ease with the playbook after a full season and training camp. He emphasized focusing on what he could control regarding his performance and the team's decisions regarding the quarterback position.
