League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Transactions

Dallas Cowboys release quarterback Joe Milton after initial roster announcement

4 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 8:30 PM

Last updated Aug 31, 2026

Dallas Cowboys release quarterback Joe Milton after initial roster announcement

Summary

The Dallas Cowboys have released quarterback Joe Milton. The move occurred on August 31, 2026, following the team's initial 53-man roster announcement this past Sunday. Milton had been widely viewed as the primary backup to starter Dak Prescott throughout the training camp and preseason sessions. During the preseason, Milton led the NFC in passing on third downs. His release remains notable given his performance in exhibition appearances, though the team may be utilizing roster movement to navigate league waiver rules. The decision follows a period where the team had already finalized its core roster, marking a significant change in the quarterback depth chart moving into the regular season.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•The Dallas Cowboys released quarterback Joe Milton on August 31, 2026.
•Milton was previously named to the team's initial 53-man roster on Sunday.
•The quarterback led the NFC in third-down passing during the 2026 preseason.
•The team may be attempting to clear roster space or navigate waiver claims.

Latest Updates

9:15 PMESPN — Cowboys waive Milton, name Howell backup QB
8:26 PMYahoo Sports — Cowboys release QB Joe Milton, keep Sam Howell to backup Dak Prescott this season
8:00 PMYahoo Sports — Dallas Cowboys release QB Joe Milton

What they're saying

"
The Cowboys named Sam Howell as the team's backup QB after waiving Joe Milton III on Monday to make room for free agent RB Emari Demercado.
— ESPNby Todd Archer