Brian Schottenheimer spills the truth on Joe Milton’s shocking roster reversal
Joe Milton survived the Cowboys’ roster cuts, and Brian Schottenheimer revealed why Dallas wasn’t ready to let him go.
The Dallas Cowboys are already focused on the start of the 2026 NFL season . After finalizing their roster, head coach Brian Schottenheimer is turning his attention to the final details of the game plan ahead of Week 1 . Among the players who survived the final roster cuts is quarterback Joe Milton , who will continue developing within the Dallas organization.
Brian Schottenheimer excited to have Joe Milton back
Milton’s powerful arm remains one of the most intriguing aspects of his game. Although he has yet to earn the opportunity to become a full-time starting quarterback in the NFL, his physical tools have impressed both coaches and fans, and Schottenheimer believes having a player with his skill set is valuable for the Cowboys’ future.
“Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer is ‘elated’ to have QB Joe Milton on the practice squad. ‘We’re thrilled to get him back. He’s gonna continue to get better,’” The Athletic’s Jon Machota reported on Thursday .
Milton was selected by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and quickly generated excitement after a strong preseason performance, where he showcased his ability to make deep throws and utilize his elite arm strength. However, he appeared in only one regular-season game during his time in New England.
In April 2025, the Patriots traded Milton to the Dallas Cowboys , where he received more opportunities to gain NFL experience. The quarterback appeared in four games with Dallas, although he never earned a starting role. Still, those reps represented valuable experience as he continued adjusting to the speed and demands of professional football.
Joe Milton chooses to continue his development in Dallas
After being waived during the final roster moves in August, Milton had the opportunity to explore options with another franchise. Instead, the quarterback chose to remain with the Cowboys by re-signing with the practice squad, a move that was welcomed by Schottenheimer and the coaching staff.
Milton’s development will be one of the storylines to monitor throughout the season. His physical abilities, especially his rare arm strength, give him intriguing potential as Dallas continues to invest in his growth as a quarterback.
The Cowboys will open the 2026 NFL season on September 13 , when they face Jaxson Dart and the New York Giants in the first game of a new campaign.
