Cowboys Make A Backup Change, Reportedly Release QB Joe Milton

Dak Prescott will have a different quarterback working behind him for the 2026 season.

In a surprise roster move, the Dallas Cowboys are releasing quarterback Joe Milton, ESPN reported Monday. The decision clears the path for Sam Howell to step in as Prescott's primary backup to start the year. Dallas waived Milton in order to reportedly sign running back Emari Demercado, who was waived by the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

Milton served as the Cowboys' backup quarterback over the past year after they acquired him from the New England Patriots in exchange for a fifth-round pick in 2025. He completed 15 of 24 passes for 183 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions as he played in parts of four games.

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Milton was drafted in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Tennessee. He spent six years in college playing for both Michigan and Tennessee, but only started one full season during his redshirt senior year. With the Volunteers, Milton completed 64.5% of his passes for 2,813 yards with 20 touchdowns and five interceptions.

Howell was a fifth-round pick by the Washington Commanders in the 2022 NFL Draft. Since then, he has spent time around the league with the Commanders, Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles and now the Cowboys.