Could Joe Milton III use his painful Dallas Cowboys exit as motivation to prove he deserves a bigger role in the NFL?

Joe Milton III did not hide his disappointment after the Dallas Cowboys released him last week. The decision came after a preseason competition with Sam Howell for the backup quarterback spot behind Dak Prescott. Still, Milton refused to let the setback change how he sees himself. After clearing waivers and returning to the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, he now has another chance to keep developing and show that he belongs in a bigger NFL role.Dallas Cowboys’ decision surprised Joe Milton III, but he has no plans to doubt himselfThe roster cut clearly surprised Milton, but it did not appear to damage his confidence. Instead of questioning his ability, the quarterback made it clear that his belief in himself remains strong."Nah, I'm still the best quarterback in my eyes," Milton said. "So, it is what it is. It's just something you gotta live with, take it to the chin."That confidence will be important as Milton enters another uncertain stage of his young NFL career. He has played only a handful of regular-season games, making every opportunity to show what he can do especially important.His preseason performance gave the Dallas Cowboys plenty to consider. Milton completed 29 of 43 passes for 378 yards and three touchdowns. Sam Howell completed 27 of 40 passes for 314 yards and also accounted for three touchdowns.Dallas ultimately chose Howell as Dak Prescott’s backup, but Milton’s numbers showed that the competition was not one-sided.His biggest advantage continues to be his arm strength. Milton has the physical tools to make difficult throws down the field, but becoming a trusted NFL quarterback requires more than a powerful arm. His development, decision-making and consistency will determine whether he can turn that natural ability into a lasting opportunity.The practice squad gives him time to work on those areas.Joe Milton III sees Dak Prescott and Dallas Cowboys as the right place to keep buildingMilton could have ended up with another team after clearing waivers. Instead, he chose to return to Dallas, largely because of the relationships he has built inside the organization.Having Dak Prescott around also gives him access to a veteran quarterback who understands what it takes to survive and succeed in the NFL."I've got Dak in my (QB) room. A lot of places don't have a true vet that's been a starter in this league since they got in. Having him in the room is one of those ways that I know for sure I'll be taken care of, as far as my knowledge and development of the game – and football talk for sure."That kind of environment could be valuable for Milton. A practice squad position may not carry the attention of a backup quarterback job, but it can provide an important period of growth. He can prepare against the Dallas Cowboys’ defense, learn from the coaching staff and remain ready if the team needs him.Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer also made it clear that the team was pleased Milton made it through waivers."Quarterback rooms around the league are pretty crowded right now, but he’s certainly talented enough to get claimed," Schottenheimer said. "It’s our good fortune that he wasn’t."Prescott has also shown support for Milton, praising his talent, work ethic and progress. That backing gives Milton another reason to stay patient while continuing to compete.For now, Milton’s path is not the one he expected when training camp began. He wanted the backup job and instead found himself off the active roster before returning to the practice squad.But the story is far from finished."Everything happens for a reason," Milton argued.Now, his task is to make those words mean something. If he keeps improving and stays prepared, an unexpected chance could eventually come his way. The Dallas Cowboys may have cut him once, but Milton clearly has no intention of letting that decision define his NFL career.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.