The Dallas Cowboys have signaled a fresh chapter at the quarterback position, parting ways with a seasoned veteran to clear space after bringing in Sam Howell on a one-year NFL contract. The move comes as the franchise seeks to balance stability behind franchise cornerstone Dak Prescott with potential upside in reserve spots.
The cut of veteran quarterback Will Grier, who had been with the Cowboys in two separate stints, was confirmed shortly after the team officially signedHowell, a former Washington Commanders starter.
Grier spent the 2025 season on Dallas‘s practice squad and was resigned to a futures deal in January. ESPN reporter Todd Archer noted on X that with Howell‘s arrival, the Cowboys opted to release Grier to trim the roster at the position.
Howell‘s journey to Dallas has been winding. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by Washington, he eventually became the Commanders‘ primary starter in 2023, where he posted career highs in attempts (612), completions (388), and passing yards (3,946).
Despite showing flashes of big play ability, with 21 touchdowns that year, turnover issues and defensive pressure plagued his performance, as he also threw 21 interceptions.
Over the past two seasons, Howell didn’t see game action in 2025, spending time on the rosters of the Seattle Seahawks and Philadelphia Eagles without logging regular-season snaps. That lack of recent play didn’t deter the Cowboys from bringing him in to compete for the backup job behind Prescott.
Cowboys retool depth behind Dak Prescott
Dallas‘ quarterback room now includes Prescott as the unquestioned starter, with Joe Milton III and Howell vying for the No.2 spot. Milton, acquired via trade with the New England Patriots, served as Prescott‘s backup through the 2025 season and enters the 2026 campaign with experience in Dallas‘s offense.
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy and the offensive staff have emphasized competition at every position this offseason, and the decision to bring in Howell reflects that philosophy.
Analysts note that Howell‘s experience starting games, despite volatility, could give Dallas an edge if the depth chart is tested by injuries or unexpected challenges during the regular season.
Howell‘s NFL path has been defined by movement. After his initial tenure with Washington, he was traded to the Seahawks in 2024, made two appearances there, and was subsequently dealt to the Minnesota Vikings before landing with the Eagles. Now with the Cowboys, he returns to the NFC East and a division he already knows well.
For Grier, the release marks another pivot in a career that has included time with multiple NFL teams and flashes of performance in preseason action. While he was once a promising third-round pick, Dallas‘s move underscores the often uncertain life of a backup quarterback in the league.
