The Dallas Cowboys have announced that Sam Howell will be the starting quarterback for their preseason opener against the Seattle Seahawks. This decision came just 90 minutes prior to the game, with Joe Milton expected to play the entire second half.
Milton, who had been taking most of the second-team snaps during training camp and was noted as the backup on the unofficial depth chart, has not met the team's expectations. Coach Brian Schottenheimer had previously indicated an open competition for the position, but Howell’s selection as the starter suggests a significant shift in the team’s assessment of both players.
Howell brings experience from 17 games played in the 2023 season, where he was among the top ten for big-time throw percentage, though he also led in turnover-worthy plays. As the Cowboys gear up for the 2026 NFL season, there is a pressing need to finalize their backup quarterback situation, especially given the team’s ambitions to contend for a championship.
Jerry Jones, the team owner, has shown openness to making trades or signing free agents to strengthen the roster, highlighting the importance of the upcoming preseason games in shaping the team’s future. Howell's performance against Seattle will be closely watched as he aims to solidify his position in the quarterback lineup.
