Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer says Joe Milton III and Sam Howell remain “neck and neck” in the backup quarterback competition. Milton has improved significantly this preseason, but Howell’s experience keeps the battle open.
Speaking to NFL reporters Monday, Schottenheimer praised Milton’s poise and improved touch. He specifically highlighted throws to Jonathan Mingo, Camden Brown and Malik Davis.
“Just the poise that he’s playing with right now,” Schottenheimer said. “The touch on the double move to Mingo was a beautiful, beautiful throw.”
Schottenheimer also pointed to a touchdown throw from last season that showed Milton’s development. “He probably would have blistered it at Malik,” the coach said.
Instead, Milton softened his delivery and placed the ball where Davis could make an easier catch. That adjustment reflects the progress Dallas wants from a quarterback with elite arm strength.
“Just kind of flicked it, and made it really easy for Malik,” Schottenheimer said. “So really, two really, really good performances.”
Milton’s recent production has strengthened his case after he entered camp competing with Howell for QB2 duties. He completed 9 of 13 passes for 179 yards, two touchdowns and one rushing score against Arizona.
Joe Milton’s growth has changed the Cowboys’ QB 2 competition
Schottenheimer still believes Howell has a slight edge when considering the entire training camp. “If you would just take the training camp competition, it’s probably neck and neck, and Sam may be a little bit ahead,” he said.
That explains why Howell started Dallas’ preseason opener against Seattle. Howell brings 18 NFL starts, giving the Cowboys a quarterback with more regular-season experience.
However, Milton’s recent performances have changed the conversation. His improved decision-making and touch give Dallas a higher-upside option behind Dak Prescott.
From a roster perspective, the competition is about more than preseason statistics. The Cowboys need a backup who can operate the offense efficiently if Prescott misses time.
Milton’s development could also give Dallas flexibility with its quarterback room. His raw talent was never the concern, but his consistency and command needed work.
On Aug. 23, the Cowboys named Milton III player of the game vs. the Arizona Cardinals after his three-touchdown performance and throwing for 179 yards with a QB rating of 151.4
Schottenheimer emphasized that the competition will continue. “Joe’s put together two really good performances,” he said. “And this will be another fun week for them to keep battling.”
The preseason finale should provide another evaluation opportunity. Dallas must decide whether Milton’s growth has closed the gap or whether Howell’s experience still gives him the edge.
For now, the Cowboys have no clear winner. The battle remains “neck and neck,” with both quarterbacks fighting for an important role behind Prescott.
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