Cowboys’ New Coach Bucks Trend, Sits Starting QB in Preseason

Preseason QB Strategy is taking center stage as the Dallas Cowboys, under the direction of new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, make a bold decision regarding their quarterback lineup. Dak Prescott, the Cowboys’ established starting quarterback, will be sitting out the entirety of the preseason games. This move prioritizes Prescott’s health and recovery following a hamstring injury sustained in 2024, as reported by Sports Illustrated (SI.COM).

Milton Takes the Reins

With Prescott sidelined, second-year quarterback Joe Milton III has been named the starting quarterback for the Cowboys’ preseason games. This provides a significant opportunity for Milton to showcase his abilities and potentially secure the primary backup role behind Prescott. As noted by CBSSports.com, Milton’s performance during these games will be critical in determining his future with the team.

Preseason Schedule

Milton’s preseason starts include matchups against formidable opponents such as the Baltimore Ravens and the Atlanta Falcons. He also started and played the majority of snaps in the initial preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. These games, as highlighted by The Spun, offer a high-pressure environment for Milton to demonstrate his readiness to step in should Prescott be unavailable during the regular season.

Milton’s Opportunity

Acquired from the New England Patriots, Milton’s arrival in Dallas presents a fresh opportunity for the young quarterback. The Cowboys are keen to evaluate his potential, making the preseason games a crucial testing ground. Yardbarker emphasizes the importance of these games in assessing Milton’s arm strength, decision-making, and overall command of the offense.

Rationale Behind Sitting Prescott

The decision to sit Dak Prescott for the entire preseason reflects a strategic shift towards prioritizing player health and long-term team success. The Cowboys are taking a cautious approach, ensuring Prescott is fully recovered and ready for the rigors of the regular season. This preventative measure aims to mitigate the risk of re-injury and ensure Prescott’s availability when it matters most.

Avoiding Unnecessary Risk

Preseason games, while valuable for evaluation purposes, inherently carry a risk of injury. By keeping Prescott off the field, the Cowboys are minimizing the potential for setbacks. This approach aligns with the growing trend among NFL teams to prioritize the health and well-being of their key players, particularly quarterbacks. The team believes this approach will pay dividends throughout the season, ensuring their star quarterback is at peak performance when the games truly count.

Confidence in Prescott’s Abilities

The decision to sit Prescott also reflects the team’s confidence in his established abilities and leadership. After several years as the Cowboys’ starting quarterback, Prescott has proven his capabilities on the field. The coaching staff likely believes that the limited reps he would gain in the preseason do not outweigh the potential risks associated with playing him.

Evaluating Joe Milton III

The Preseason QB Strategy provides a unique opportunity to thoroughly evaluate Joe Milton III. With extensive playing time against NFL-caliber defenses, the coaching staff can assess his strengths and weaknesses in a game environment. This evaluation will be crucial in determining his readiness to serve as the primary backup to Dak Prescott.

Assessing Arm Strength and Accuracy

Milton is known for his exceptional arm strength, but accuracy and consistency are key areas the Cowboys will be closely monitoring. The preseason games will provide a real-time assessment of his ability to make accurate throws under pressure and consistently deliver the ball to his intended targets. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will also be under scrutiny.

Leadership and Decision-Making

Beyond physical attributes, the Cowboys will also be evaluating Milton’s leadership qualities and decision-making abilities. How does he command the huddle? Does he make smart choices when faced with pressure? These intangible qualities are essential for a backup quarterback who may be called upon to lead the team at any moment. The coaching staff will be looking for signs of maturity and poise under center.

Future Implications

Milton’s performance in the preseason games could have significant implications for his future with the Cowboys. A strong showing could solidify his position as the primary backup and potentially open doors for future opportunities. Conversely, a lackluster performance could raise questions about his readiness for the role and prompt the team to explore other options. The stakes are high for Milton as he seeks to prove his worth to the Cowboys organization.

Conclusion

The Cowboys’ decision to sit Dak Prescott for the preseason and give Joe Milton III significant playing time reflects a strategic focus on player health and development. This Preseason QB Strategy not only prioritizes Prescott’s well-being but also provides a valuable opportunity to evaluate Milton’s potential as a reliable backup. As the preseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Milton to see if he can seize the moment and solidify his place within the Cowboys organization.