Cowboys Meet With Promising QB Ahead of Draft

Haynes King, a dual-threat QB, could push Joe Milton for Cowboys' backup job

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:24pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Dallas Cowboys have met with quarterback Haynes King as they evaluate options to add depth behind starter Dak Prescott. King, who recently transferred to Georgia Tech after two seasons at Texas A&M, is described as an accurate passer with impressive mobility. The Cowboys signed veteran Sam Howell as their new backup QB, but King could be a developmental prospect they consider drafting to compete with Joe Milton for the third-string job.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are looking to build depth at quarterback behind Prescott, and King's combination of passing ability and athleticism could make him an intriguing option, especially if he continues to impress during the pre-draft process. Adding King could create healthy competition for the backup roles and provide the team with a potential long-term developmental prospect.

The details

According to reports, King had a strong workout for the Cowboys, hitting 52 of 54 passes and displaying impressive accuracy. He has also met with several other NFL teams, including the Patriots, Colts and Vikings. King emerged as one of the top dual-threat QBs in the ACC last season at Georgia Tech, throwing for nearly 3,000 yards and rushing for over 950 yards with 29 total touchdowns.

  • King transferred to Georgia Tech in 2023 after two seasons at Texas A&M.
  • In 2025, King set Georgia Tech's single-season record for total offense and was named the ACC Player of the Year and ACC Offensive Player of the Year.
  • The Cowboys signed veteran QB Sam Howell to a one-year deal on March 10, 2026.

The players

Haynes King

A quarterback who recently transferred to Georgia Tech after two seasons at Texas A&M, where he displayed impressive passing ability and athleticism as a dual-threat QB.

Sam Howell

A veteran quarterback who the Cowboys signed to a one-year deal on March 10, 2026, to serve as the backup to starter Dak Prescott.

Joe Milton III

A young quarterback on the Cowboys' roster who has shown potential but is still developing, and could face competition from Haynes King for the third-string job.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Quarterback Haynes King was on the money, and one NFC East team described him as 'dialed in' throughout the entire workout.”

— Tony Pauline, Reporter (Essentially Sports)

What’s next

The Cowboys will continue to evaluate Haynes King and other quarterback prospects ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, as they look to add depth behind Dak Prescott and create competition for the backup roles.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' interest in Haynes King suggests they are leaving no stone unturned in their search for quarterback depth and potential long-term developmental prospects, even as they have already made moves to shore up the position this offseason.