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Howell Wins Cowboys QB Backup Battle Over Milton
16 Aug
Summary
- Sam Howell named starting backup quarterback over Joe Milton.
- Howell will play the first half, Milton the second, in preseason opener.
- Howell brings more experience than Milton, despite past interceptions.
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to face the Seattle Seahawks in their preseason opener, Sam Howell has secured the No. 2 quarterback position over Joe Milton III. This marks a shift from previous years where Cooper Rush held the role. Howell is slated to play the entire first half, with Milton taking over for the second half.
Milton, a sixth-round pick from 2024, joined Dallas after a brief stint with the Patriots. While he possesses impressive athleticism and arm strength, his touch on throws has been inconsistent. He appeared in four regular-season games in 2025, throwing for 183 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions.
Sam Howell brings a wealth of experience, having started 17 games for the Washington Commanders in 2023. Despite the team's 4-13 record that season, Howell showed promise, though he also led the league with 21 interceptions. He has since played for the Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings, and Philadelphia Eagles, though he hasn't appeared in a regular-season game since 2024. Howell's career statistics include a 62.6% completion rate, 4,139 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions.
