The race is on as the Dallas Cowboys search for a new backup quarterback. Dak Prescott has solidified himself as the team’s franchise quarterback, but the veteran will have a new backup when Week 1 arrives.
Cooper Rush and Trey Lance both departed in NFL free agency, creating a wide opening at QB2 in Dallas. The Cowboys acquired Joe Milton in a trade with the New England Patriots this offseason. Additionally, Dallas has Will Grier returning who joined the team’s practice squad last November.
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The early indications point to the backup quarterback race appearing to be a bit one-sided. All signs point to the Cowboys giving Milton every opportunity to win the backup role behind Prescott, putting Grier’s future with the franchise in doubt.
Let’s dive into the latest news on the Cowboys quarterback competition behind Prescott.
The Cowboys Are ‘Trying to Give Joe Milton’ the Backup Quarterback Role: Insider
According to The Dallas Morning News’ Calvin Watkins, the early signs point to the Cowboys wanting to make Milton the backup quarterback. This makes sense given Dallas gave up draft capital to acquire Milton this offseason.
“Cowboys trying to give Joe Milton the No. 2 QB gig,” Watkins detailed in a July 21, 2025, message on X. “We’ll see how Will Grier responds.”
Joe Milton Is Being Labeled as the Cowboys Backup QB at the Beginning of Training Camp
While breaking down the Cowboys running back competition, ESPN’s Todd Archer labeled Milton as the Cowboys “backup.” The former standout Tennessee Volunteers quarterback was selected by the Patriots in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL draft.
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“But as the Cowboys opened practice Tuesday with a non-padded workout,” Archer explained in a July 24, story titled, “2025 Dallas Cowboys training camp: Latest intel, updates.” “Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders alternated with the starters during the eight team periods. Williams had five carries and Sanders finished with six.
“Deuce Vaughn and Jaydon Blue split the work behind backup quarterback Joe Milton III.”
Joe Milton’s ‘Arm Strength & Athleticism Have Been on Display’ During Cowboys Training Camp
Dallas’ strategy in acquiring Milton appears to be similar to how the front office viewed trading for Lance. Unfortunately, Lance’s tenure in Dallas never lived up to the lofty expectations that came with being the former No. 3 pick in the 2021 NFL draft. Milton is already shining during the first week of training camp practices.
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“Backup QB Joe Milton’s arm strength and athleticism have been on display,” The Athletic’s Jon Machota wrote in a July 24, story titled, “Cowboys camp observations: CeeDee Lamb sounds motivated for big season.” “With Prescott being in his 10th season, it’s highly unlikely he will do much, if anything, during the preseason.
“That’s when Milton will really get an opportunity to show off his arm and running ability, when needed. Cooper Rush was a more polished veteran backup, but Milton has a much higher upside. It should be fun to see how he progresses throughout camp and the preseason.”
Will the Cowboys Cut Ties With Will Grier?
Even if Milton wins the backup gig, this does not necessarily mean Grier will not have a spot on the roster. The question is whether the Cowboys will carry three quarterbacks this season.
Dallas could also release Grier and look to sign the veteran to the team’s practice squad if no other franchise shows an interest in the quarterback. Heading into training camp, Archer predicted the Cowboys will only retain Prescott and Milton, meaning Grier would be cut.
