Backup quarterbacks tend to have a unique relationship with NFL fans. On a team with an established QB1, fans absolutely never want to see the backup set foot on the field. But they're also often one of the most beloved players on the roster. And if they can actually win some games when the starter gets hurt? That's icing on the cake.
So while Cooper Rush may not be a Dallas Cowboy anymore, most fans carry fond memories as he departs for the Baltimore Ravens.
And that's why Joe Milton's first decision as a Cowboys is rubbing some fans the wrong way.
Dallas Cowboys QB Joe Milton III (@Qbjayy7) is wearing number 10. Last assigned to Cooper Rush. #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/5myFYDWyUn
— NFL Jersey Numbers (@nfl_jersey_num) April 9, 2025
Joe Milton Steals Cooper Rush's Jersey Number, Risks Major Aura Loss
It has been revealed that newly acquired backup QB Joe Milton will wear number 10 with the Cowboys — the same number that Rush wore for most of his Cowboys career. But taking Rush's number isn't the only thing not to like about the decision.
First of all, the number 10 is just not an aesthetically pleasing one on a quarterback. Obviously that's a wildly subjective measure, but take a poll of NFL fans and you're not going to find many people who like 10 on a QB. Did 10 fit Rush better than the No. 7 he rocked in his first couple years in Dallas? Maybe, but if it did that's only because Rush wasn't exactly dripping with aura anyway.
And what a waste to put 10 on a quarterback now that it can be worn by wide receivers. The Cowboys may well be drafted a new WR2 within the first couple rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft later this month, and this would be an ideal jersey number for an explosive rookie receiver.
Of course, part of the issue is that most of the single-digit jersey numbers have been taken. Joe Milton III wearing No. 3 would be great, but that's Dante Fowler's number. Of course he can't take No. 7 from Trevon Diggs. But are we sure that Bryan Anger needs to keep No. 5? Or that Jalen Tolbert has done enough to deserve to keep No. 1?
The Cowboys' jersey number game is improving with Demarvion Overshown becoming the first player in franchise history to wear 0, but this Milton news is a step in the wrong direction.