Full Breakdown
Joe Milton’s Preseason Surge Fuels Backup-Quarterback Battle in Dallas
8/26/2026, 2:15:47 AM
Core Event: Milton’s Preseason Performance
Backup quarterback Joe Milton III delivered two strong outings in the 2026 preseason. Against the Arizona Cardinals he completed 9 of 13 passes for 179 yards, added two touchdowns and a rushing score, finishing with a 151.4 passer rating. The previous game versus the Seattle Seahawks saw him go 12 of 15 for 107 yards and one touchdown. The outings placed Milton at the top of the league in expected points added per play, according to TruMedia’s EPA metric.
Background & Context
Milton entered the NFL as a sixth-round pick in the 2024 draft, selected by New England before being traded to Dallas for a fifth-round pick. His college career began at the University of Michigan, where he was praised for arm strength but criticized for decision-making and accuracy. After transferring to Tennessee and earning a single full-season start, Milton fell to the later rounds of the draft. The Cowboys have kept him as the second-string quarterback behind starter Dak Prescott, with the backup spot contested by former Washington Commanders fifth-rounder Sam Howell.
Data & Statistics
| Metric | Seahawks (preseason) | Cardinals (preseason) |
|---|---|---|
| Completions-Attempts | 12-15 | 9-13 |
| Passing yards | 107 | 179 |
| Passing TDs | 1 | 2 |
| Rushing TDs | 0 | 1 |
| EPA per play (league rank) | — | 1st |
| Passer rating (Cardinals) | — | 151.4 |
Official Statements & Responses
Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer highlighted Milton’s evolution from a raw arm-strength thrower to a more complete quarterback. Schottenheimer also emphasized that the competition with Howell remains “neck and neck,” explaining why the team started Howell in the Seattle game while still valuing Milton’s recent performances.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I first remember hearing about Joe Milton when he was at the University of Michigan, and everyone applauded him for how hard and how far he could throw the ball,” — Brian Schottenheimer, coach
- “ "Last year at times, this time of year with Joe, it was a little bit difficult to call plays for Joe because I wasn't sure exactly what's going to happen here and there," Schottenheimer said, before detailing the progress Milton has made and saying that the quarterback has put together "two really, really good performances" in the preseason games.” — Brian Schottenheimer, coach
- “If you would just take the training camp competition, it's probably neck and neck, and Sam maybe a little bit ahead," Schottenheimer said.” — Brian Schottenheimer, coach
What’s Next
The backup-quarterback competition will continue through training camp, with Schottenheimer indicating that the margin between Milton and Howell is minimal. No official decision has been announced, and the Cowboys have not confirmed any trade discussions.
