FRISCO, Texas – The football season is on the horizon.
The Cowboys are preparing to head to training camp in less than a month, marking the first chance to see Brian Schottenheimer’s approach with the revamped roster and coaching staff. As we arrive in Oxnard, we’ll start to uncover insights about the Cowboys for the 2025 season.
So, what are the important questions to consider? We’ve compiled our usual list of critical inquiries that need addressing before the regular season kicks off. Our team of writers—Patrik Walker, Tommy Yarrish, Nick Eatman, Mickey Spagnola, Kyle Youmans, and Kurt Daniels—share their thoughts on these pressing topics.
In today’s discussion, we will focus on the backup quarterback position, which sees new dynamics with Cooper Rush and Trey Lance moving on in free agency. Let’s examine who will be supporting Dak Prescott in 2025.
13) What are your expectations for the backup QB position?
Tommy: Is it wrong to say not much? It’s tough to set high expectations when the backup quarterbacks on the roster have only combined for three regular season games and just 148 offensive snaps. While this doesn’t instill much confidence, it doesn’t mean Joe Milton and Will Grier can’t help the team win. I feel Milton offers a better chance than Grier, but he still has significant development ahead in processing and mastering all aspects of being an NFL quarterback. The Cowboys traded for him with hopes of nurturing his skills while Dak Prescott stays healthy.
Mickey: I anticipate that the Cowboys will thoroughly evaluate Joe Milton and Will Grier during training camp, especially in at least two of the three preseason games, if not all, as they likely won’t want Dak Prescott exposed to unnecessary hits. However, relying on inexperienced backups could be risky. The Cowboys may keep contacts for several veteran quarterbacks on hand, ready to explore options if Milton or Grier don’t prove to be up for such a vital role, especially as the market for seasoned players may drop as August approaches.
Patrik: I expect it to be more engaging than it’s been since Dak Prescott was drafted in 2016 as the fourth quarterback behind Tony Romo, Kellen Moore, and Jameill Showers. That transition was remarkable, but Cooper Rush has essentially dominated the QB2 spot since then, with little competition until now, despite Trey Lance’s trade. The 2025 QB2 battle reignites excitement, as Milton is a young, strong, mobile quarterback with a powerful arm, while Will Grier is the seasoned player who shined in a previous preseason game. Grier’s performance offers potential, and Milton will need to earn the role this time around.
