The Dallas Cowboys are currently engaged in a competitive evaluation for the backup quarterback position behind Dak Prescott. Sam Howell and Joe Milton have both shown promising performances during the preseason, leading to critical decisions for the team.
The Cowboys must determine who will serve as the backup quarterback and whether to retain two or three quarterbacks on the roster. Keeping three quarterbacks could necessitate cutting a player from another position, where the team may require additional depth.
Ben Grimaldi from USA Today predicts that the Cowboys are likely to release Howell and select Milton as the backup quarterback. Grimaldi noted that while Howell was initially seen as the frontrunner, Milton's strong showing in the Week 2 preseason game has shifted the dynamics of the competition.
Howell, who has a background as a starter with the Washington Commanders, has played in 20 NFL games, including 18 starts. He is under a one-year contract worth $2.5 million, which is fully guaranteed. This financial commitment means that if Howell is released, the Cowboys would still be responsible for his salary.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer acknowledged that Howell had previously been leading in the competition but indicated that Milton has made significant strides. "If you would just take the training camp competition, it's probably neck and neck, and Sam maybe a little bit ahead," Schottenheimer stated on August 24.
