Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer has seen enough through two preseason games: Joe Milton is no longer simply a guy with a cannon arm, he’s a legitimate quarterback showing off real “touch” on his throws. That’s the word coming straight from Schottenheimer’s mouth on Monday, August 24, and it’s a huge shift in perception for the 26-year-old signal-caller.
“Go to the Fair and Win a Teddy Bear” , The Truth About Arm Strength
Schottenheimer isn’t holding back when he talks about what it takes to play in the NFL. He remembers everyone raving about Milton’s arm strength back at the University of Michigan, saying, “Cool. That’s awesome. You know, go be in a carnival somewhere.” For Schottenheimer, that’s not what being an NFL quarterback is all about. It’s not about how far you can launch it, it’s about “throwing through small windows, you’re throwing over people, you’re changing arm slots.” He even quipped, “arm strength is cool. But like, go to the fair and win a teddy bear.”
What truly caught the coach’s eye in these early preseason outings was Milton’s touch and the poise he’s demonstrating. This isn’t just a fluke; Schottenheimer credits their second season working together for Milton being “more in sync” with him. That connection has led to Milton improving his command and understanding of Dallas’ offensive scheme, solving problems on the fly, making blitz adjustments, and reading through his first, second, third, and even fourth progressions. He’s learning to “play quarterback,” and Schottenheimer is “really, really proud of him” for taking these critical steps forward.
Milton’s Preseason Numbers Speak Volumes
Milton hasn’t just impressed with intangible growth; his stats are backing it up big time. Across Dallas’ first two exhibition games, the third-year quarterback completed 21 of 28 passes, a staggering 75% completion rate, for 286 yards and three touchdowns through the air. He even added 12 rushing yards and another touchdown on 10 carries. The guy is making plays!
He truly lit up the field in the Cowboys’ 34-13 preseason Week 2 win against the Arizona Cardinals. Milton showed off those explosive playmaking skills we heard about, hooking up with Jonathan Mingo for a monster 53-yard touchdown. That was just one of his three total touchdowns from that game, with two coming through the air and one on the ground. This isn’t just about arm talent anymore; it’s about a complete game emerging.
The No. 2 QB Race Is Heating Up
Even with all this undeniable progress, Schottenheimer isn’t ready to crown Milton the undisputed backup behind Dak Prescott just yet. The 52-year-old coach says Milton is still battling it out with free agent signing Sam Howell for that coveted No. 2 quarterback spot. But don’t get it twisted: Schottenheimer is absolutely thrilled with the “strides” Milton has made. He’s in “a much different place right now” in terms of truly grasping the offense. The competition for the backup job is real, but Milton’s growth means he’s absolutely in the thick of it, making this a fascinating battle to watch as the preseason continues.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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