The Dallas Cowboys have always been a team that thrives on tradition, leadership, and iconic moments. For years, quarterback Dak Prescott has been the heartbeat of the franchise, leading with poise and commanding the offense with his signature pre-snap cadence, “Here we go!” But in a surprising twist during the 2025 offseason, a new quarterback has emerged in Dallas, catching the attention of fans and coaches alike—not just for his arm strength or athleticism, but for eerily mimicking Prescott in a way that has the Cowboys’ faithful buzzing. Meet Joe Milton, the Cowboys’ new backup quarterback, who some are already calling a “Dak Prescott clone” for his uncanny imitation of Prescott’s iconic snap count.
A New Face in Dallas
Joe Milton, acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots during the 2025 NFL offseason, was brought in to serve as the QB2 behind Prescott. The Cowboys sent a 2025 fifth-round pick and received a seventh-round pick in return for the 25-year-old quarterback, who flashed potential in a Week 18 win over the Buffalo Bills during his rookie season. With Prescott coming off a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the final nine games of the 2024 season, Dallas needed a reliable backup with the potential to keep the offense explosive. Milton, with his rocket arm and impressive athleticism, fit the bill.
But what nobody expected was how closely Milton would mirror Prescott—not just in physical ability, but in the smallest details of his game. During organized team activities (OTAs), Milton was filmed practicing, and what caught everyone’s attention was his pre-snap cadence. As he lined up behind center, Milton barked out the same “Here we go!” cadence that has become synonymous with Prescott’s leadership on the field. The moment was so striking that it sparked excitement among fans and even raised eyebrows within the Cowboys’ coaching staff.
#Cowboys Joe Milton doing the “here we go” cadence, which Dak Prescott made iconic.
Brian Schottenheimer said the pre-snap call may or may not change for the upcoming season.
(🎥: dooleyqbu on IG) pic.twitter.com/IrAQOlXZcS
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) June 8, 2025
The Iconic “Here We Go” Cadence
Dak Prescott’s “Here we go” cadence is one of the most recognizable in the NFL. Whether it’s the full “Yeah, here we go” or the shorter version, it’s a signal to Cowboys fans everywhere that the team is ready to roll. The cadence has become a hallmark of Prescott’s pre-snap routine, instantly identifiable when flipping through channels on an NFL Sunday. It’s a symbol of his command over the offense and his ability to galvanize his teammates.
So, when Joe Milton was caught using the exact same cadence during OTAs, it was more than just a coincidence—it was a moment that felt like déjà vu. Fans took to social media to express their amazement, with some joking that Milton must have been studying Prescott’s every move. One post on X captured the sentiment perfectly: “#Cowboys Joe Milton doing the ‘here we go’ cadence, which Dak Prescott made iconic.”
A Clone in the Making?
Milton’s imitation of Prescott’s cadence isn’t just a quirky anecdote—it’s a sign of how seriously he’s taking his role as the backup quarterback. Learning from a veteran like Prescott, who has thrown for over 31,000 yards, 213 touchdowns, and led the Cowboys to a 76-46 record in 122 starts, is no small opportunity. Milton himself has expressed excitement about being in Dallas, saying, “It’s great, man. Dak brings the most experience to the room.”
But it’s not just the cadence that has people drawing comparisons. Milton’s arm strength and athleticism mirror the qualities that have made Prescott a Pro Bowl quarterback and the NFL MVP runner-up in 2023. While Milton is still in the developmental phase, as head coach Brian Schottenheimer noted, his physical tools suggest he could one day step into a starting role if needed. Schottenheimer emphasized that all quarterbacks, including Prescott, are still growing, but Milton’s ability to emulate Prescott’s cadence shows he’s already picking up the nuances of leadership.
A New Era Under Schottenheimer
The Cowboys’ 2025 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one, with new head coach Brian Schottenheimer taking over after Mike McCarthy’s departure. Schottenheimer has been praised by Prescott for “doing a hell of a job” in building a new culture in Dallas, and Milton’s integration into the quarterback room is part of that transition. However, Schottenheimer has hinted that the team’s offensive approach, including Prescott’s famous cadence, might see some tweaks in 2025. While “the bones” of the offense will remain similar, there’s a chance the cadence could shift to something new, like a clap or another directive.
For now, though, Milton’s use of the “Here we go” cadence has sparked a mix of nostalgia and excitement. Posts on X have highlighted the moment, with one user noting that Milton “went against Schottenheimer’s wishes” by reviving the cadence, suggesting the young quarterback is eager to make his mark while paying homage to Prescott.
What This Means for the Cowboys
The arrival of Joe Milton and his “Dak Prescott clone” moment is more than just a feel-good story. It signals a depth at the quarterback position that Dallas hasn’t had in recent years. With former backups Cooper Rush and Trey Lance moving on to Baltimore and Los Angeles, respectively, Milton steps into a critical role alongside veteran Will Grier. The Cowboys are banking on Milton’s potential to develop behind Prescott, who is entering his age-32 season and coming off a challenging 2024 campaign marred by injury.
Prescott’s leadership and resilience remain the cornerstone of the Cowboys’ aspirations. After a season-ending hamstring injury in Week 9 against the Atlanta Falcons, Prescott is reportedly “close to 100%” and ready to lead Dallas back to the playoffs in 2025. With additions like wide receiver George Pickens and running backs Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams, the Cowboys have bolstered their roster to support Prescott’s return. Milton’s ability to step in and keep the offense humming, cadence and all, adds another layer of confidence for the team.
A Fanbase Energized
Cowboys fans, known for their passionate support and high expectations, are already buzzing about Milton’s cadence moment. The team’s 6-11 record in 2024 and absence from the playoffs for the first time since 2020 left a bitter taste, but the combination of Prescott’s return, Schottenheimer’s new vision, and Milton’s emergence as a potential “clone” has reignited hope. Whether Milton’s “Here we go” becomes a regular feature or fades as Schottenheimer tweaks the offense, the moment has given fans a glimpse of a future where the Cowboys’ quarterback room is in good hands.
As the Cowboys gear up for their season opener against the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles on September 5, 2025, all eyes will be on Prescott—and perhaps a little on Milton, too. Will the “Dak Prescott clone” continue to channel his mentor’s energy? For now, one thing is clear: in Dallas, the “Here we go” spirit is alive and well, no matter who’s calling the snap.