Dallas Cowboys Secure Joe Milton III as Backup QB

FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys have found their new backup quarterback for Dak Prescott: Joe Milton III. The team acquired Milton along with a 2025 seventh-round pick (No. 217) from the New England Patriots, in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick (No. 171), according to sources informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Discussions between the two teams began several weeks ago and intensified this week during the NFL’s annual meeting at The Breakers resort in Palm Beach, Florida.

The Cowboys’ necessity for a secondary quarterback arose after Cooper Rush inked a two-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens, securing $4.2 million in guaranteed money. Earlier in the free agency period, Dallas pursued Jacoby Brissett, insiders revealed, but he ended up signing with the Arizona Cardinals. Milton, originally a sixth-round draft pick last year, showcased his potential in New England’s final season game, guiding the Patriots to victory over the Buffalo Bills by completing 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and a touchdown, on top of rushing for another score. Prior to this trade, Will Grier was the only other quarterback backing up Prescott on the Cowboys’ roster.