Cowboys Waive QB Joe Milton, Confirm Howell as Backup

The Dallas Cowboys waived backup quarterback Joe Milton on September 1, 2026, a surprising move that came less than 24 hours after he was included on the team's initial 53-man roster. The decision clears the path for Sam Howell to serve as the primary backup to starter Dak Prescott for the upcoming season. The roster move was made to create space for running back Emari Demercado, whom the Cowboys claimed off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs. Rather than cutting a player at another position, the team opted to part with Milton, ending his competition with Howell for the No. 2 quarterback job. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer had indicated earlier Monday that the backup decision was still fluid. "We're still piecing the puzzle together and that's where this thing is very fluid," Schottenheimer told reporters before the move was finalized. Milton's release was unexpected given his strong preseason performance. He completed 29 of 43 passes for 378 yards and three touchdowns across the exhibition slate, earning praise from the coaching staff. However, he was less effective in the preseason finale against New Orleans, while Howell performed well in relief.