Joe Milton III (Image via Imagn Images)
Joe Milton III did not hide his disappointment after the Dallas Cowboys released him last week.
“Nah, I’m still the best quarterback in my eyes,” Milton said. The decision came after a preseason competition with Sam Howell for the backup quarterback spot behind Dak Prescott. Still, Milton refused to let the setback change how he sees himself. After clearing waivers and returning to the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, he now has another chance to keep developing and show that he belongs in a bigger NFL role. “So, it is what it is. It’s just something you gotta live with, take it to the chin. That confidence will be important as Milton enters another uncertain stage of his young NFL career. He has played only a handful of regular-season games, making every opportunity to show what he can do especially important. His biggest advantage continues to be his arm strength. Milton has the physical tools to make difficult throws down the field, but becoming a trusted NFL quarterback requires more than a powerful arm. His development, decision-making and consistency will determine whether he can turn that natural ability into a lasting opportunity. The practice squad gives him time to work on those areas.
Because of the relationships he has built inside the organization, instead, he chose to return to Dallas, largely.
“Quarterback rooms around the league are pretty crowded right now, but he’s certainly talented enough to get claimed,” Schottenheimer said. “It’s our good fortune that he wasn’t.” Milton could have ended up with another team after clearing waivers.