Dallas Cowboys fans can breathe a sigh of relief as quarterback Joe Milton has returned to the team's practice squad following a surprising stint on the waiver wire. Milton, who was initially seen as the frontrunner for the backup quarterback position behind Dak Prescott, was unexpectedly waived just one day after the Cowboys finalized their 53-man roster.
The decision to waive Milton left many supporters puzzled, especially since it allowed fellow quarterback Sam Howell to secure the backup role. The Cowboys needed to create a roster spot to accommodate running back Emari Demercado, whom they claimed off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs. This move ultimately led to Milton's release, raising questions about the team's quarterback depth.
Despite being available to any NFL team, Milton went unclaimed during the waiver process, which allowed him to explore his options. After considering various opportunities, he opted to rejoin the Cowboys, where he will continue his development on the practice squad. Reports indicate that the 26-year-old quarterback attracted interest from multiple teams, but he preferred to remain in Dallas.
Milton's return comes just in time for the Cowboys as they prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the New York Giants. His presence on the practice squad adds valuable depth to the team's quarterback lineup, which now includes Prescott and Howell. While Milton did not sign back with Dallas immediately after clearing waivers, his eventual decision to return demonstrates his commitment to the team and its offensive system.
Originally acquired from the New England Patriots in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round pick and a seventh-round pick, Milton served as Prescott's primary backup last season. However, his playing time was limited, as he appeared in only four games and attempted just 24 passes. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer acknowledged that the choice to go with Howell as the backup was a difficult one, but the Cowboys had expressed their desire to bring Milton back if he cleared waivers.
Milton had a solid preseason, showcasing his potential, but the Cowboys assessed that many teams had already solidified their quarterback positions by the time waiver claims were processed. This strategic gamble has now paid off for Dallas, allowing Milton to return to a familiar environment while continuing to learn and grow behind Prescott and Howell.
The Cowboys' decision to waive Milton may have been based on their assessment of his readiness for the backup role, but it is clear that they value his potential and were not ready to part ways with him entirely. As the season unfolds, Milton's development could play a crucial role in the Cowboys' success, especially if they encounter any challenges at the quarterback position.
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