Sam Howell will be the Dallas Cowboys’ backup quarterback to Dak Prescott.
The Cowboys waived quarterback Joe Milton III on Monday to make room for running back Emari Demercado, who was claimed off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs.
Milton, who served as Prescott’s backup in 2025, had an outstanding preseason, completing 29 of 43 passes for 378 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. The Cowboys praised the jump he made in understanding the offense and his improved accuracy.
One edge for Howell was experience. He has 18 career starts, all with the Washington Commanders in 2022 and 2023. Milton has played in five games across his two campaigns with no starts.