Cowboys HC Confirms Possibility of Trading for Dual-Threat QB with 27 TDs

Amid swirling rumors about a potential trade of backup quarterback Joe Milton III to the Cincinnati Bengals as a stopgap for the injured Joe Burrow, Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has firmly shut down speculation. Speaking at a press conference at The Star on Friday, September 19, 2025, Schottenheimer declared that the likelihood of trading Milton is "highly unlikely," emphasizing the second-year quarterback’s importance to the team’s long-term plans.

Milton, acquired from the New England Patriots in April 2025 for a fifth-round pick, has generated buzz with his cannon arm and dual-threat potential during training camp. Despite a mixed preseason performance (397 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, 55% completion rate) and no game action through the first two weeks of the 2025 season, he remains a key backup behind Dak Prescott, with Will Grier serving as the QB3 on the practice squad.

The trade rumors surfaced as the Bengals, currently 2-0 but reeling from Burrow’s turf toe injury that will sideline him for at least three months, seek additional quarterback depth. Milton’s college stats at Tennessee in 2023 (2,813 passing yards, 20 TDs, 5 INTs, plus 299 rushing yards and 7 TDs) make him an intriguing developmental option. However, Schottenheimer was quick to dismiss the idea of a trade.

“We’re very happy with Joe Milton and what he brings to the table,” Schottenheimer said. “He’s progressing rapidly in our system, learning from Dak, and growing every day. Trading him? I’d say that’s highly unlikely. We invested in Joe because we believe in his potential, and we want him here.”

Schottenheimer also stressed that the Cowboys are focused on building depth and stability, especially after trading Micah Parsons and starting the 2025 season with a 1-1 record (a loss to the Eagles in Week 1 and a win over the Giants in Week 2). “We’re not here to make rash roster changes,” he added. “Joe is part of our plan, and I believe he’ll play a big role in our future.”

Meanwhile, the Bengals have signed veterans Sean Clifford and Mike White to their practice squad, with Jake Browning set to start in Burrow’s absence. Some analysts suggest Milton could be a long-term fit for Cincinnati, but the Cowboys appear unwilling to part with their young talent, particularly given Prescott’s injury history.

Executive Vice President Stephen Jones echoed Schottenheimer’s stance during an appearance on 105.3 The Fan. “We have three quarterbacks we trust,” Jones said. “Joe is a valuable asset, and we have no intention of letting him go for a late-round pick.”

As the Cowboys prepare for their Week 3 matchup against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field, Schottenheimer and the team are clearly focused on maintaining their current roster and tapping into Milton’s potential as a cornerstone of the future. With this emphatic statement, the Cowboys have effectively closed the door on trade talks—for now—leaving the Bengals to explore other options for their quarterback needs.