Joe Milton will have one final opportunity to prove himself for the backup quarterback role with the Dallas Cowboys. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that Milton will start in the team’s preseason finale against the Atlanta Falcons, providing a critical evaluation point for the coaching staff.
Milton’s performances during the preseason have drawn scrutiny. In the Cowboys’ recent game against the Baltimore Ravens, he completed nine of 18 passes for 122 yards and threw an interception.
He also took a sack that resulted in a safety, raising questions about his consistency and ability to handle game situations. These struggles have sparked discussion about whether the team might explore other options to serve as Dak Prescott’s primary backup.
Despite these concerns, Schottenheimer emphasized that the team’s objective is to fully assess Milton’s capabilities rather than favor one quarterback over the other.
“It’s not that we want Joe to win the job or Will to lose the job,” Schottenheimer stated.
“We need to figure out more about Joe.”
Dallas have options at the QB position
Will Grier, the other in-house candidate for the backup position, will not start in the final preseason game. The coaching staff views this as an opportunity to gather a more comprehensive understanding of Milton’s skills under game conditions, including his decision-making, accuracy, and ability to read defenses effectively. The evaluation will inform the team’s depth chart heading into the regular season.
Milton’s performance against the Falcons is expected to play a pivotal role in determining his standing. If he demonstrates improved consistency and leadership, it could solidify his role as Prescott’s backup. Conversely, another subpar showing may prompt the Cowboys to consider alternative options.
Beyond individual performance, the coaching staff will also assess Milton’s integration with the first-team offense, his ability to maintain composure under pressure, and his readiness to execute the game plan effectively.
The Cowboys recognize the importance of a reliable second-string quarterback to support their starting quarterback and manage injury contingencies. With the regular season approaching, Schottenheimer and his staff will be scrutinizing all aspects of Milton’s preparation, including pre-snap reads, pocket presence, and decision-making in high-pressure situations.
Ultimately, the preseason finale provides Milton with a final opportunity to demonstrate his readiness to contribute meaningfully to the team. The coaching staff’s evaluation will determine whether he secures the backup role or if the Cowboys pursue other solutions.
This game will offer critical insight into which quarterback is best equipped to provide stability and support for Dak Prescott throughout the 2025 season, ensuring the team is well-prepared for the challenges of the NFL campaign.
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