Dallas adds former Eagles QB Sam Howell, sparking an intriguing backup competition and a much-needed challenge for Dak Prescott's presumed heir.
Of all the moves the Dallas Cowboys were expected to make this offseason, signing a new quarterback likely wasn't on the to-do list.
But that is exactly what the franchise has done.
And before we go any further, Dak Prescott's job is not in danger.
With Dak as QB1, and Joe Milton as his backup, and potentially Will Grier as the third quarterback, the Cowboys clearly felt there needed to be more competition for places.
And as such, the Cowboys have signed former Washington Commanders, Seattle Seahawk and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Howell to a one-year deal.
It is a move that, on face value, can be met with a casual shoulder shrug.
But if we delve a little deeper, I personally like the move.
Milton has been a project for two seasons now, and he has shown glimpses of his talent in the preseason. But he is still very much a raw prospect.
Howell, on the other hand? Is far from that.
Now, Sam isn't a world-beater by any stretch, but he does have starting experience in the league (18 across three seasons) and is 5-13, with all of his starts coming in Washington.
But Howell did show flashes that maybe he could be "the" guy in Washington before that fell away, and the franchise drafted Jayden Daniels.
Now with the Cowboys, it gives fans a proper quarterback battle ahead of training camp.
Milton, at least to my eyes, is no longer the lock to be Dak's backup in 2026.
Yes, this move for Howell is a dart throw, but what it also is is a kick up the backside for Joe -- he has genuine competition now. That's not to say he didn't with Grier, but Howell is a different prospect.
He's got skins on the wall in the league, has thrown for 4,123 yards, 20 TDs, and 23 interceptions. Not great.
But the Cowboys don't need him to be great. They need him to be Cooper Rush-like.
A player who, if needed, can step in and win you a game or two in a pinch.
We now have something else to watch this offseason in Oxnard: a quarterback battle between Howell and Milton taking center stage.
This move won't make headlines, but it feels like one made with a distinct emphasis.
And that's to light a fire under Joe.