The Joe Milton experience appears to be over with the Dallas Cowboys, who released the developmental quarterback in favor of keep veteran Sam Howell as the primary backup to starter Joe Milton.

It was the decision that was made begrudgingly and painstakingly by the Cowboys. They liked the progress and development Milton has made over the last year and were excited about his performance during the preseason.

Howell, however, has been more consistent since the start of offseason and training camp. He doesn’t have Milton’s upside in terms of athleticism and arm talent but he is guy they trust more to win games if something happened to Prescott.

The Cowboys envisioned keeping both quarterbacks on the roster. They certainly weren’t ready to make this move on Sunday before final cuts.

It so, they possibly would have explored a trade for Milton in hopes of getting something in return.

However, when the Cowboys claimed running back Emari Demercado off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday they had to make a corresponding roster move to open up a spot.

In the end, the team decided to let go of Milton in what was another of example of them making winning now in 2026 the foundation of all decisions heading into the season.

There is a chance the Cowboys could sign Milton back to the practice squad if he clears waivers.

It’s a risk the Cowboys are willing to take.

The Cowboys also made decisions on their practice squad.

The Cowboys are signing backup tackle Wanya Morris to the practice squad. Morris is a former starter with Kansas City Chiefs, who was released by the Atlanta Falcons.