How Joe Milton is coping after Cowboys crush his ambitions behind Dak Prescott and Sam Howell
Despite being released, Joe Milton III returned to Dallas with a clear message: he still believes he can become one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks.
The Dallas Cowboys will begin the 2026 season with Dak Prescott as their starting quarterback and Sam Howell as the top backup, but there is another signal-caller who has developed a special connection with the fan base: Joe Milton III .
The young quarterback, who is currently part of the practice squad, could not avoid being released last month despite his impressive arm strength and calm demeanor on the field. However, Dallas decided to give him another opportunity by bringing him back because of the potential they still see in his development.
Milton III explained that his return to the Cowboys was mainly driven by the trust he has built within the organization and the relationships he has developed with his teammates and coaches.
"Somewhat, but not really," Milton III said when asked if it was a difficult decision to rejoin the Cowboys after being waived. "I have a lot of relationships here and guys I trust with my development."
Despite the disappointment of being released, Milton said he has not lost confidence in his abilities and continues to maintain an ambitious mindset.
"I’m still the best quarterback in my eyes," Milton III said. "It is what it is. It’s something you got to live with and take to the chin."
Last season with Dallas, Milton III appeared in four games, throwing for 183 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Now, he will have the opportunity to continue developing behind Prescott and Howell, while receiving the support of the Cowboys' starting quarterback.
Dak Prescott has publicly shown his support for Milton’s return, and the young quarterback will look to make the most of this new opportunity as the Cowboys prepare for their season opener on September 13 against the New York Giants in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
