Cooper Rush’s latest appearance as Lamar Jackson’s backup revived the old question: what is Rush really as a passer, and what is Milton’s upside in a Cowboys system that still values Dak Prescott’s durability? Milton’s arm is undeniable, his rapid college path intriguing, but his NFL readiness remains in question as he navigates a preseason debut and a high-ceiling/low-floor profile. The Cowboys’ stance on backing Milton versus keeping Rush or Will Grier underscores a tougher reality: backup QB value hinges on consistency, development time, and the willingness to pay for insurance in a winner-take-all league. Rush’s seven-season stint as a reliable, if unflashy, sub- Dak has some teams noting that experience still matters. In the end, Dallas faces a delicate balance: keep a veteran payer’s arithmetic in mind, or chase the next edition of a mobile, artillery-armed passer who can spark a roster in a pinch. For fantasy managers, Milton offers a speculative ceiling in the event Prescott misses time, while Rush’s resume argues for caution in rostering either as long-term holds. The seller’s market for backups remains alive, with incentives to lean toward strong arm, agile runners who can execute in a modern offense.

Overall, the Cowboys are weighing a future beyond the current starter with Milton as a high-octane project and Rush as a proven, if modest, match for short-term needs. Milton’s “cannon” of an arm is an asset in a quarterback-friendly scheme, but accuracy and game sense lag behind the big-name prospects who dominated the collegiate scene. The coaching and front office seem to prefer a cautious, cost-conscious approach—retaining a veteran backup or paying a modest price for ceiling with Milton, while evaluating Will Grier as a more stable No. 2. For fantasy, monitor Milton’s development, Rush’s health, and how Dallas balances risk with potential upside as the season unfolds.