The Philadelphia Eagles have signed Joe Milton III from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad to their 53-man roster after Jalen Hurts was ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers due to a superficial blood clot. The move comes with the Eagles preparing to face Dallas in Week 7, adding an unusual twist as Milton joins the division rival’s roster just days before the matchup.
Milton’s arrival gives Philadelphia another quarterback option behind Tanner McKee, who is set to start against Carolina with Hurts sidelined. Sean Mannion, the Eagles’ quarterbacks coach, will have to determine how quickly Milton can absorb the offense and contribute. There is no indication Milton will immediately challenge McKee for playing time.
Known for his arm strength, Milton offers the Eagles a quarterback able to drive the ball downfield and attack difficult throwing windows. NFL.com’s Chad Reuter pointed out Milton’s ability to make long throws and his mobility during his college career. Those traits could add a vertical threat and offer Mannion flexibility to move the pocket if Milton gets on the field. However, these remain possibilities rather than confirmed elements of Philadelphia’s offensive plan.
Accuracy, timing, and anticipation have been concerns throughout Milton’s career. NFL.com’s 2024 prospect evaluation noted questions about his touch and his tendency to focus on his first target rather than adjusting when that option is covered. There are questions about how well he can operate in a crowded pocket and whether he can deliver the right passes before receivers break open.
Milton’s preseason performance with Dallas offered some encouragement. He completed 29 of 43 passes for 378 yards and three touchdowns without an interception in the 2026 preseason. Despite this, the Cowboys chose Sam Howell as their backup quarterback, with coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasizing consistency and overall body of work over isolated impressive plays.
Milton spent the 2025 season and this year’s offseason with Dallas before returning to their practice squad. This familiarity with Dallas’s offensive terminology and personnel could help Philadelphia prepare for the Week 7 matchup, though changes in signals and play-calling limit the advantage this knowledge provides.
The timing of Milton’s signing also signals the Eagles’ approach to Hurts’ uncertain return timetable. Adding Milton gives Philadelphia another quarterback to evaluate alongside Cole Payton, while McKee handles the starting duties. If Hurts misses more time, Milton’s NFL experience could become more valuable. If Hurts returns quickly, the Eagles will still have the chance to assess Milton’s fit within their long-term plans.
With the roster full, the Eagles will have to release a player or place someone on injured reserve to make room for Milton. The official roster move has not yet been announced.
According to Yahoo Sports.
