Joe Milton III

Career StatsD-

Year	Team	GP	Yards	TD	INT	RTG
Career		5	424	2	2	90.4
2025		4	183	1	2	65.1
2024		1	241	1	0	111.4

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

This is a textbook value play that earns a solid B CVI grade — the Cowboys secured a promising developmental quarterback at bargain-basement pricing that carries virtually zero financial risk. Milton's $1.1M AAV sits well below the typical backup quarterback threshold, yet his physical tools and upside potential make this deal a shrewd investment for a franchise that needs reliable depth behind Dak Prescott. The minimal $0.2M guaranteed money means Dallas can easily move on if Milton doesn't develop, but the four-year term gives them control through his prime learning window if he does pan out. While Milton currently profiles as a depth piece rather than an immediate contributor, his combination of size, arm strength, and mobility provides the kind of developmental upside that often translates into starter-level production with proper coaching. The Cowboys essentially bought a lottery ticket at spare change prices, and even if Milton never rises above third-string status, the financial commitment is so negligible that it represents smart roster construction rather than meaningful risk.

Performance Analysis

Joe Milton III grades as a depth piece among NFL quarterbacks — a below-average player at the position. His strongest area is yards per attempt at 7.63 (above the NFL average of 6.90), ranking as above average for the position. Passing yards per game, at 45.8 compared to an NFL average of 230.0, is where he falls short relative to the position. Limited games played (5 career) reduces confidence in this grade.

Current Sentiment

Joe Milton III enters the 2026 offseason in a precarious position within the Dallas Cowboys organization, with media narratives consistently framing his roster standing as uncertain rather than secure. Multiple outlets have raised concerns about his long-term viability as even a backup option, with trade exploration headlines signaling that the front office may be actively seeking alternatives at the position. The emergence of a reported QB2 competition with Sam Howell further underscores that Milton has not yet established himself as a trusted commodity in Dallas, despite flashing moments of athletic upside during his limited opportunities. Fan perception mirrors the media skepticism, as Cowboys supporters remain divided on whether Milton's raw tools can translate into reliable NFL production under pressure. Unless Milton delivers a standout training camp and preseason performance, the prevailing sentiment heading into 2026 positions him as a roster bubble candidate rather than a developmental cornerstone.