The Philadelphia Eagles have signed quarterback Joe Milton III off the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad as they prepare for life without Jalen Hurts. The move comes ahead of Philadelphia’s Week 6 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, with the team looking to strengthen its quarterback depth during a challenging stretch of the 2026 NFL season.
According to the reported update, Hurts will miss Sunday’s game because of a superficial blood clot in his calf. With his return timeline uncertain, Philadelphia is adding another quarterback to provide additional depth and flexibility.
Joe Milton Joins the Philadelphia Eagles
The Joe Milton Eagles news has attracted attention because the quarterback is moving from a division rival to Philadelphia at a crucial point in the season. Milton leaves the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad to join the Eagles, who are attempting to recover from a three-game losing streak.
Philadelphia enters Week 6 with a 2-3 record and needs to find a way to stabilize its offense. Milton will join Tanner McKee and rookie Cole Payton in the team’s quarterback room.
Because Milton is being signed away from another team’s practice squad, he must occupy a spot on Philadelphia’s active 53-man roster. His arrival gives the Eagles another option while they manage Hurts’ absence.
Who Is Joe Milton III?
Joe Milton III is a quarterback known for his exceptional arm strength, athletic ability and potential to make plays outside the pocket. He played college football at Tennessee before entering the NFL in the 2024 draft.
The New England Patriots selected Milton in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He made his NFL debut during his rookie season and showed flashes of his passing ability and mobility.
Milton appeared in one game for New England, completing 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and one touchdown. He also scored a rushing touchdown in a victory over the Buffalo Bills.
He subsequently joined Dallas and appeared in four games during the 2025 season. Across five career NFL appearances, Milton has completed 37 of 53 passes for 424 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions.
Although he has yet to start an NFL game, his physical tools give Philadelphia another developmental option at quarterback.
Tanner McKee Expected to Start Against Carolina
Milton’s arrival does not immediately change Philadelphia’s starting quarterback plans. Tanner McKee is expected to start against the Carolina Panthers, marking the third start of his NFL career.
McKee will have the responsibility of managing the offense while Hurts is unavailable. The Eagles will need him to make sound decisions, protect possession and take advantage of scoring opportunities.
Rookie Cole Payton also remains part of the quarterback group as Philadelphia adjusts to the situation. Milton will need to learn the offensive system quickly if the team expects him to contribute in the coming weeks.
The signing provides insurance at a position that has become a major concern for Philadelphia heading into an important stretch of its schedule.
Why the Joe Milton Signing Matters for Philadelphia
The Eagles’ decision to bring in Milton reflects the uncertainty surrounding Hurts’ availability. Adding another quarterback gives the coaching staff greater flexibility if the injury sidelines the starting quarterback for an extended period.
Milton’s arm strength and rushing ability could offer a different dimension to Philadelphia’s offense. However, his limited NFL experience means the team will need to evaluate how quickly he can adjust to a new playbook and establish chemistry with his teammates.
For now, his primary role is expected to be providing quarterback depth rather than immediately challenging McKee for the starting position.
The move also creates an intriguing storyline in the NFC East. Milton has switched from Dallas to Philadelphia just before the teams’ upcoming meeting later in October. That matchup could give him an opportunity to face his former organization, depending on his role and availability.
What Happens Next for Joe Milton and the Eagles?
Philadelphia’s immediate priority is its Week 6 game against Carolina. With Hurts sidelined and the team carrying a 2-3 record, the Eagles need a strong performance to stop their losing streak and regain momentum.
McKee is expected to lead the offense, while Milton will begin adjusting to his new surroundings. The coaching staff will assess his familiarity with the system and determine how he fits into the team’s plans.
Hurts’ recovery remains an important factor in Philadelphia’s longer-term quarterback strategy. Until more clarity emerges about his return, the Eagles must prepare for different scenarios.
Joe Milton’s signing may not solve every problem facing Philadelphia, but it gives the team another experienced quarterback as it navigates an uncertain period.
Joe Milton Eagles: Key Takeaways
- New team: Joe Milton III has reportedly joined the Philadelphia Eagles after leaving the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad.
- Reason for signing: Philadelphia is adding quarterback depth following news that Jalen Hurts will miss the Week 6 game.
- Expected starter: Tanner McKee is expected to start against the Carolina Panthers.
- NFL experience: Milton has appeared in five career NFL games, recording 424 passing yards, two passing touchdowns and two interceptions.
- Next storyline: Milton could face his former team when Philadelphia meets Dallas later in October.
The Joe Milton Eagles story is one to watch as Philadelphia works to overcome its recent struggles. His arrival adds depth to the roster, while Hurts’ recovery and McKee’s performance will remain central to the team’s immediate future.
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