Milton leads Cowboys' backup QB race into preseason finale

The Dallas Cowboys’ backup quarterback competition remains unresolved as they head into the final week of the preseason, with Joe Milton holding the inside track but not yet secure behind Dak Prescott. After two exhibition games, Milton’s raw tools and upside are clear, but coaches and front office officials say there is still a significant amount to learn about his grasp of the position in real-game conditions. The club plans to use a decisive third start in the preseason finale to determine whether Milton can be trusted as Prescott’s deputy or if the Cowboys must consider alternative options.

Milton’s path to the Cowboys began with a trade that sent a seventh-round pick to New England. Front-office leadership had long tracked Milton, dating back to pre-draft conversations at the 2024 NFL Combine, and were drawn by his physical gifts and the Week 18 start that showcased his potential. The plan, as described by the club’s personnel chief, was to add depth and athleticism to the quarterback room and place Milton in a developmental environment guided by Brian Schottenheimer and Dak Prescott. Milton, 25, has the ceiling teams hoped to maximize, even as he remains a project in process.