In a stunning turn of events for the Dallas Cowboys, Joe Milton III has officially replaced Dak Prescott as the team’s starting quarterback (QB1), fulfilling the warning issued by Cowboys legend Michael Irvin earlier this year. The announcement came on April 8, 2025, following a series of developments that saw Prescott struggle to maintain his position amidst injuries and inconsistent performances.
Irvin, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Cowboys wide receiver, had cautioned Prescott on his YouTube channel, urging the veteran quarterback to stay healthy and perform at his best to avoid giving Milton an opportunity to shine. “Don’t let this kid get a chance, Dak. You’ve got to stay healthy, stay ready, and stay on the field. You’re making $60 million a year, while this kid’s making $1 million. If you give him a shot on the field, things will get ugly,” Irvin had warned, highlighting the significant salary gap and the pressure on Prescott to justify his lucrative four-year, $240 million contract signed in 2024.
Irvin’s concerns were rooted in Milton’s potential, noting their shared hometown of Pahokee, Florida, and Milton’s fierce competitive spirit. The young quarterback, acquired by the Cowboys in a trade with the New England Patriots—where Dallas sent a fifth-round pick in exchange for Milton and a seventh-round pick—had already shown promise. Milton, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, impressed in a late-season game with the Patriots, completing 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and a touchdown.
Prescott’s 2024 season was marred by injuries, including a hamstring issue that sidelined him for nine games, contributing to the Cowboys’ inconsistent performance. With backup quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Trey Lance departing to the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers, respectively, Milton became the primary backup. When Prescott faltered early in the 2025 season, Milton seized his opportunity, delivering standout performances that showcased his arm strength and leadership on the field.
The Cowboys’ decision to name Milton as the new QB1 marks a significant shift for the franchise, as Prescott’s tenure as the starter since 2016 comes to an end. While Prescott’s experience and past success, including leading the team to playoff appearances, are undeniable, Milton’s emergence has given the Cowboys a fresh start at the quarterback position. Irvin’s prophetic warning has now come to fruition, leaving fans and analysts eager to see how Milton will lead the team in the upcoming games.
