The Cowboys struggled to reach the end zone from inside the 20 last year, only besting the Giants in efficiency.

Dak Prescott’s ability to gain the tough yards also puts an oft-injured key player at risk.

The Cowboys are once again tapping into the dual-threat world at QB, can Joe Milton be used in a better way than Trey Lance?

It took a while before the closer role became common in MLB; red-zone specialist might be similar in the NFL.

It’s not common practice to develop a specialist role for a key position such as quarterback in today’s NFL. A starter is a starter and removing said player tips off intensions and frankly comes off as a little disrespectful. For the Dallas Cowboys and Dak Prescott, replacing the QB in select goal-line packages could be seen as both, even if it seems like a smart course of action for all parties involved.

The Cowboys touchdown scoring percentage in the red zone was just 46 percent in 2024. That was second to last in the NFL, ranking only above the lowly Giants. The Cowboys’ inability to get into the endzone was a season-long issue, dating back before Prescott’s season-ending injury. It left points on the board and ultimately demoralized an already fragile unit.

Prescott is scheduled to return in 2025 with a full bill of health. In previous seasons, he’s been an assassin from the red zone, guiding the Cowboys to a No. 12 ranking in 2023 and to No. 1 overall ranking in 2022. Given his past proficiency, it’s not preposterous to think he can bounce back to those levels again in 2025, but is the risk worth it?

A major part of Prescott’s redzone efficiency lies in his ability to run the ball. As a ball carrier Prescott operated at a 0.40 EPA/play with a 100 percent success rate on two attempts in 2024. The season before he was at 0.16 EPA/play with a 71.43% success rate on 14 attempts. QBs are universally a highly efficient rushing option from the red zone; the only downside is such plays open them up to hits and potential injury. The Cowboys can ill afford to suffer and injury of Prescott’s magnitude so alternatives need to be explored.

Prescott, 32, is the highest paid player in the NFL and an irreplaceable part on the Cowboys’ machine. He’s not injury prone, per say, but having missed five or more games in three of the last five seasons, he’s not exactly made of metal either. Using him as a runner might be more risk than the Cowboys want to take on and finding a replacement option may not be as crazy as it sounds when all factors are under consideration.

After adding Joe Milton in an offseason trade, the Cowboys have an intriguing option as a situational replacement to Prescott. The highly gifted, yet severely underdeveloped, quarterback prospect is sure to drive headlines throughout the summer with dazzling throws and highlight runs.

Milton, who has three years and $3 million remaining on his rookie deal, could be the answer in the red zone based on his skillset and dispensability. If Prescott gets hurt tucking and running the season might be over for the Cowboys. If Milton gets hurt running the rock, it’s unlikely to have any impact on the success or failure of the season, and the financial investment in him is already minimal.

At 6-foot-5, 246-pounds, Milton is built for the part. Coming from an RPO-rich offense in college, Milton is an ideal dual-threat inside the redzone. His reads downfield and accuracy as a passer leave something to be desired, but if cast into zone-read role where he can either handoff or run it himself, he offers something Prescott does not. Incorporating a single read as a passer is a great way to take that zone-read attack into a simple, but multifaceted, RPO.

Once upon a time the idea of having a dedicated closer in baseball seemed absurd. It wasn’t until the late 1970s when teams started to designate specialists and from there it took years before it became the norm. In much the same way an occasional red-zone specialist could be normalized on early downs in the NFL. For teams with veteran QBs who are too important to risk and somewhat susceptible to injury, bringing in a dual-threat QB on early downs (non-obvious passing downs) could be a great way to take advantage of the game’s highest leverage situations.

QB runs are an important part of an efficient redzone offense but with a QB1 who’s too important to risk, situational alternatives should be explored. Can Milton be that alternative?

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The Dallas Cowboys have entered the NFL offseason with notable transitions throughout the football organization from head coach to players, and one addition stands out ahead of the 2025/26 campaign – Joe Milton, who is gunning for Dak Prescott’s job.

With Brian Schottenheimer stepping into the role vacated by Mike McCarthy after the team slipped to third in the NFC East, he has already set about making changes to the roster and that includes the quarterback spot.

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Milton, picked up from the New England Patriots, is expected to initially serve as back-up at the AT&T Stadium but his work ethic is positioning him as a serious competitor in Dallas to the team’s $240m 31-year-old starter.

The youngster has impressed coaches during organized team activities (OTAs) by dedicating additional time to build chemistry with the Cowboys’ reserve receivers, including Ryan Flournoy and Jalen Brooks.

And although limited by collective bargaining agreement (CBA) restrictions that minimize offseason reps for young players, the 25-year-old, picked 193rd in the 2024 NFL Draft, has been taking matters into his own hands.

Working directly with fellow backups outside of team-mandated activities allows him to grasp the playbook more efficiently, whilst also elevating his status as a serious QB2 contender as the behind-the-scenes workouts impress coaches.

Milton mirrors Prescott

This comes at a particularly sensitive time for Prescott, who is recovering from a hamstring injury that had ruled him out from Week 9 of the 2024/25 NFL season. It’s not the first time he’s been hurt either.

With Jerry Jones desperate to bring a Super Bowl title back to Arlington, could Dak find himself under pressure if his health proves inconsistent once again? Or if his form wavers in the NFL Playoffs?

Though Milton is not yet a threat to Prescott’s starting job, he is putting himself in position to earn long-term trust from the coaching staff; especially important in a league where injuries can suddenly elevate a backup to the forefront.

And he is doing more than just working hard too, he’s absorbing the nuances of Prescott’s game such as his trademark “here we go” call. While the vocal delivery lacks the same command, the intent is clear: Joe is studying the veteran closely.

Milton brings elite physical tools to Dallas. His arm strength and athleticism were highly praised during the pre-draft process, and those traits remain evident during offseason training with a cannon arm that could be a great asset to George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb.

His transition to the Cowboys gives him a fresh opportunity in a system now under the guidance of Schottenheimer, who is known for developing quarterbacks with versatile skill sets, but can he go beyond expectations by displacing the big fish?

Cowboys’ Dak Prescott Under Immense Pressure But Not From Joe Milton originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

FRISCO – In football, the most popular guy in town in always the backup quarterback. But with the Dallas Cowboys, is No. 2 Joe Milton actually posing a threat to the starting job of Dak Prescott?

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Fans who apparently how good Cooper Rush was filling in for Dak are now giddy about the prospects of Milton. There are even some analysts predicting that the Cowboys will have a new starter this season.

All the wild speculation is based on Dak’s nine seasons, but also one single game by Milton. He starred in a meaningless regular-season finale for the New England Patiots in 2024, throwing and running for touchdowns.

At 25 and with dual-threat athleticism, Cowboys fans – and some media – immediately began singing Milton’s praises this offseason. Some of the wildest rumors even predicted the Cowboys would trade Dak to the Cleveland Browns and give the starting job to Joe before a single training-camp snap.

Prescott is in the prime of his career. As the highest-paid player in NFL history, it’s time for him to deliver at the very least a berth in an NFC Championship Game. But is Milton actually threatening to take his job?

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“Let’s start with the obvious: Dak Prescott’s job is not on the line,” said ESPN Cowboys analyst Todd Archer. “The Cowboys signed him to an extension through 2028 in September that made him the highest-paid quarterback in the game. There is not an escape until maybe after the 2027 season.”

Prescott is under immense pressure to stay healthy, perform as Top 5 quarterback and lead the Cowboys to multiple playoff wins this season. Flashy as he can be, Milton, however, is not adding to it.

Related: Cowboys’ Dak Prescott and Eagles’ Jalen Hurts Predicted To Slide Behind Commanders QB Jayden Daniels in NFC East Race

Related: Michael Irvin Admits To Changing Opinion of Cowboys’ Brian Schottenheimer

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 28, 2025, where it first appeared.

Emerging Talent in the Spotlight

In the high-stakes world of the NFL, where every play can shift the balance of power, the spotlight often shines on the star quarterbacks. However, beneath the glitz and glamour of established players, there are rising talents ready to make their mark. One such talent is Joe Milton III, the Dallas Cowboys’ backup quarterback, who stands on the precipice of a significant opportunity as he prepares to step into the shoes of Dak Prescott.

The Challenge Ahead

Dak Prescott, the face of the Cowboys’ offense and a player with a staggering $240 million contract, has undeniably set a high standard in Dallas. His leadership and performance have anchored the team, guiding them through both triumphs and challenges. Yet, the nature of professional sports is one of constant evolution. Injuries, performance fluctuations, and strategic shifts can create openings for emerging players. For Milton, this means not just waiting for his moment but preparing diligently to seize it when the time comes.

Milton’s Journey to the NFL

Milton’s path to the NFL has been marked by resilience and determination. Hailing from a background that has shaped his competitive spirit, he has demonstrated remarkable skill and potential. His college career showcased a blend of physical prowess and a keen football intellect, making him a standout prospect. As he transitions from a backup role to potentially leading the Cowboys, Milton’s journey reflects the dreams of many aspiring athletes who hope to rise to prominence.

Preparing for the Opportunity

The training ground is where Milton is honing his skills, studying Prescott’s game, and absorbing the nuances of the quarterback position. His preparation is not merely about physical readiness but also about mental fortitude. Understanding the playbook, developing chemistry with the team, and maintaining a competitive edge are crucial components of his journey. Milton’s commitment to growth is evident, as he embraces the mentorship of more experienced teammates while carving out his unique identity.

Looking Ahead

As the Cowboys navigate the complexities of the season, the potential for change looms on the horizon. Whether due to injury, performance issues, or strategic shifts, the moment may soon arrive when Joe Milton III is called upon to lead. The pressure of stepping into a role held by a $240 million star is immense, but it also presents an unparalleled opportunity for Milton to showcase his abilities on a grand stage.

Conclusion: The Future Beckons

In the world of professional football, the narrative is ever-changing, and the next chapter is often unwritten. For Joe Milton III, the journey is just beginning. With determination and hard work, he stands ready to embrace the challenge of stepping into a leading role. As he awaits his opportunity, Milton embodies the spirit of perseverance that defines the league, reminding us all that behind every star is a story of aspiration and readiness. The future may hold great promise for this emerging talent, and the Dallas Cowboys may soon find themselves with a new leader at the helm.

The Dallas Cowboys haven’t had a great record in the last 10 years. While they did stay in the top two of their division eight times out of 10, they have consistently failed to win in the playoffs. Adding to that, the failure to even make the playoffs last season has brought a shift. Fans and pundits have been critical of the decisions that the management is making. And have forced the club to make changes in its ‘culture’. Meanwhile, the team is succumbing to the pressure and making changes in how they function.

A part of the changes made was the signing of Brian Schottenheimer as their new Head Coach. And soon after arriving, he started implementing the culture he wanted to see in the players. While there isn’t any particular change in the functioning of Jerry Jones, he has been under pressure from the fans. Especially because of his mistakes while picking draft picks. One of his notable mistakes was when the Cowboys picked CeeDee Lamb in the first round instead of a defensive player in 2020, which they needed. However, there is a former coach who feels that there isn’t any real need for Jerry Jones to change because he already is a great owner and a person.

Talking about an experience during his time at the Cowboys was former RB coach Anthony Lynn. In a video posted on X, Lynn is seen talking about his interaction with Jerry Jones and rejecting the need for any changes. “The culture that Mr. Jones has built here. It is unbelievable. I know you guys talk about need to make changes. You know, I don’t feel that way,” he said. Lynn in the video talked about an incident that happened during the Cowboys’ training camp. And according to him, the incident was so brutal that it could have killed him.

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“I went to Cowboys in training camp and I get hit by a damn car. The guy was three times the legal limit. They say I flew 55 feet in the air, landed on another car, totaled it. I shouldn’t be here today. I should be dead. By the grace of God, I’m alive,” Lynn said, recollecting the incident. It was then, after his surgery, that Lynn had an interaction with Jones that he will never forget. “When I woke up from surgery, that man was in the hospital with me at in the morning and holding my hand. That’s been my guy ever since,” he said. Lynn then revealed how Jerry Jones actually was, despite whatever might be shown about him everywhere.

“He cares about his people,” Anthony said about Jones. A statement that still remains true. This sentiment has always been visible. One example is Dak Prescott, who was adored by Jones. And was always backed by him, despite the injuries and the criticisms Dak received. And now, as Dak is making his comeback after a serious hamstring injury in week 9 of last season, the Cowboys’ HC has announced his new role.

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Cowboys head coach announces Dak Prescott’s new role

2024 was a tough year for the Cowboys. Not only did they not qualify for the playoffs, but they also saw many players fail. CeeDee Lamb’s output fell sharply, while Micah Parsons and Dak Prescott got injured, which sidelined them for many games. But as the Cowboys gear up for a new season with all players seemingly fit, there’s a buzz around. Especially after Dak Prescott got a new role within the team.

“I feel great. I can do nearly everything everyone else is doing at this time of the offseason. Just not cleared for contact—got a while for that anyway. Yeah, feeling great,” Prescott had said while confirming that he is fit and healthy. And with the news of his fitness, HC Brian Schottenheimer has also announced the evolution of Dak’s role from franchise cornerstone to quarterback room cornerstone.

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During OTAs, Schottenheimer told reporters, “I was excited about Joe [Milton] before we got him. His work ethic is incredible. One of the first in the building, last to leave. He’s picked up the playbook quickly, and watching Dak take a mentorship role has been fantastic. The talent’s there — Joe’s got a bright future.”

The Cowboys’ quarterback room looks excellent with the likes of Dak Prescott, Joe Milton, and Will Grier, and the team will surely be taking pride in it. While Schottenheimer added that they “don’t have any friction here,” all hopes will be on the Cowboys. After all, they need to prove to their fans that things have changed. And the best way to do it? By winning a Super Bowl.