Two Dallas Cowboys competing for crucial roles named early standouts by head coach Brian Schottenheimer, including potential QB2
We shouldn’t overreact to one practice of training camp, but if head coach Brian Schottenheimer is going to shout people at, it’s only fair to pay close attention.
Let’s make one thing very clear: We should not be overreacting to the very first training practice of the Dallas Cowboys. But… if head coach Brian Schottenheimer is going to list a couple of standouts that happen to be involved in crucial position battles, it’s only fair to talk about it.
Talking to reporters on Thursday, Schottenheimer revealed his group of standouts from the Cowboys’ initial camp practice. The group included second-year EDGE Donovan Ezeiruaku and S Jalen Thompson, which is great because Dallas needs them to be major contributors on defense.
However, it was the other two names that caught my attention as these are players locked in key camp battles. Let’s dive in.
QB Joe Milton
We still don’t know who will be Dak Prescott’s backup when the season starts, but we do know the Cowboys brought in Sam Howell knowing what they know about Milton. So it’s crucial for Milton to stand out early.
According to Dallas Morning News’ Calvin Watkins, Milton went seven for seven in team drills. That includes a pass to WR Jonathan Mingo down the sideline, which hit him in stride.
Naturally, this battle will take turns throughout the preseason. But having a perfect day should go a long way for Milton, whose biggest question mark is accuracy.
RB Jaydon Blue
Though whoever wins QB2 is unlikely to play much in 2026, the same doesn’t apply at running back. The Cowboys badly need to figure out who will complement Javonte Williams this season and Blue is the early favorite. If he makes plays like the one he did on Wednesday, he should be good.
Blue broke a 40+ yard rush in what appeared to be an outside zone play. There are no pads in camp yet but the play looks like it would have been a big gain even on gameday.
Blue’s biggest calling card right now is he brings a speed element to the table that is unmatched on the roster. If he can remain disciplined and consistent, Blue can go from healthy scratch in Year 1 to playmaker in Year 2.
We’ll see how the rest of camp goes for these two players, but they’re off to an early lead.