The 2025 NFL preseason kicked off with a thud for the Dallas Cowboys, as they suffered a disappointing loss to the Los Angeles Rams, highlighting glaring issues on both offense and defense. The game was a recipe for disaster: a stagnant offense that couldn’t find rhythm early and a porous defense that failed to contain the Rams’ attacks. At the center of the spotlight was rookie quarterback Joe Milton III, who made his starting debut in a performance that was equal parts frustrating and promising. Named among the biggest losers of Preseason Week 1, Milton’s inconsistency drew scrutiny, but his late-game improvement and honest self-assessment offer glimmers of hope. As the Cowboys look to build for the regular season, Milton’s development could be a key storyline. Let’s break down his debut, the coaching staff’s perspective, and what it means for Dallas’ quarterback future in this in-depth analysis.
The Cowboys’ offense struggled from the jump, failing to generate momentum against a Rams team that capitalized on every mistake. Joe Milton III, the young signal-caller thrust into the starting role, embodied this inconsistency. His night was a rollercoaster: early struggles with accuracy and decision-making gave way to a more settled performance later on, before an elbow injury forced him out prematurely. Milton himself delivered a brutally honest self-evaluation post-game, acknowledging his ups and downs while showing maturity in recognizing areas for growth. This candor is refreshing for a rookie, especially one who managed to “find his groove” as the game progressed, connecting on key plays that hinted at his raw potential.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer didn’t shy away from addressing Milton’s performance, offering a balanced vote of confidence that underscores the team’s investment in him. In comments shared via Jon Machota of The Athletic, Schottenheimer dissected a pivotal second-and-seven play where Milton opted for a risky throw instead of a safe checkdown. “He’s got a checkdown in front of him,” Schottenheimer explained. “Ultra-competitive, he was moving left, and he threw it up there. Now, he’s trusting (Flournoy) in that situation to try to make a play. I think that’s one of the things when Joe watches it that he’ll be like, ‘Yeah, I probably should have taken the checkdown. I got moved off the launch point.'” This moment highlights Milton’s competitive fire but also his need for better pocket awareness—issues common in young quarterbacks transitioning to the NFL.
Schottenheimer emphasized the importance of game reps for Milton’s development: “That’s why he needs to play. I do think he settled down. He found his rhythm late, started using his legs a little better. Terrific talent. Every rep he gets is going to help him become a great pro.” This praise isn’t just lip service; Milton’s physical tools are undeniable. Standing at 6’5″ with a cannon arm and athleticism, he’s a prototypical quarterback prospect who can extend plays with his legs, as evidenced by his five carries for 22 yards in the game. However, his stats paint a picture of inconsistency: completing just 17 of 29 passes (58.6%) for 143 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The interception, in particular, stemmed from forcing throws under pressure, a habit that more experience could iron out.
The defense didn’t fare much better, allowing the Rams to march down the field with ease, which put additional pressure on the offense. Sacks like the one from Rams linebacker Josaiah Stewart exposed vulnerabilities in the Cowboys’ protection schemes, forcing Milton into uncomfortable situations. Yet, amid the negatives, there’s reason for optimism. Milton is a low-risk gamble for Dallas—a late-round pick with high upside—and the team has him under contract for the next three years. This long-term security allows the Cowboys to patiently nurture his growth without the immediate pressure of a high draft investment. As Schottenheimer believes, increased reps in the Cowboys’ offense will lead to steady improvement, potentially turning Milton into a reliable backup or even a future starter behind established names like Dak Prescott.
This preseason opener also serves as a broader litmus test for the Cowboys’ rebuild efforts. With a young roster eager to prove itself, Milton’s debut reflects the growing pains of integrating new talent. His ability to settle down and use his mobility effectively late in the game suggests adaptability, a trait that could pay dividends as the preseason progresses. If Milton continues to build on this, he could silence critics who labeled him a “loser” of Week 1 and emerge as a feel-good story for Dallas fans.
The Dallas Cowboys’ preseason loss to the Rams was a wake-up call, exposing offensive and defensive shortcomings that need addressing before the real games begin. Joe Milton III’s debut was far from perfect—marked by inconsistency, an interception, and an injury—but his late-game rhythm, athletic flashes, and coach Schottenheimer’s endorsement provide a foundation for hope. With three years on his contract and a commitment to development through reps, Milton represents a promising, low-risk piece in the Cowboys’ puzzle. As Dallas refines its approach, keep an eye on this young quarterback; his growth could be the spark that ignites a deeper run in 2025.