The Dallas Cowboys have finalized their 53-man roster, implementing significant changes that have drawn attention from fans and analysts. Among the notable cuts was Joe Milton III, who had served as the team's No. 2 quarterback during the 2025 preseason. Despite showing potential, Milton's performance did not secure him a spot on the roster.
Another player released was Jaydon Blue, a fifth-round pick in 2025, who has since joined the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer acknowledged the challenging nature of these decisions, emphasizing the human aspect involved in cutting players. He noted that the team's overall vision must take priority, marking a shift from previous management styles that often prioritized talent over other factors.
Schottenheimer has been critical of players like Blue and Phil Mafah, ultimately selecting Malik Davis for the RB2 position due to his consistency.
In a pivotal decision, Schottenheimer chose Sam Howell as the backup quarterback over Milton, citing Howell's reliability. The Cowboys' defense has also seen a major overhaul under first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker, moving away from the traditional 'war daddy' player model. The new strategy focuses on collaborative pressure, with key players like Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, and Otito Ogbonnia leading the charge.
