The New England Patriots made a surprising move by trading quarterback Joe Milton and a 2025 seventh-round pick to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a fifth-round selection. Although many expected the team to wait until after the draft to make any decisions regarding their backup quarterback, they unexpectedly pulled the trigger on Thursday.
According to Jeff Lowe of The Athletic, New England’s decision to part ways with Milton—just a year after drafting him in the sixth round—may have stemmed from doubts about his long-term potential. Lowe explained:
While the Patriots are in a strong position at quarterback, Milton could have still provided value. However, new leadership often brings changes, and it’s likely that head coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels weren’t sold on Milton’s future. By dealing him, the Patriots moved up 46 spots in the draft—an aggressive move, but one that reflects the team’s more immediate roster needs rather than developing a young backup for Drake Maye. It’s possible they’ll take another late-round quarterback in this year’s draft. Given how popular backup QBs often are with fans, the move could be met with criticism—especially if Milton finds success elsewhere. But clearly, the Patriots are prioritizing other areas right now.
With Maye entrenched as the starter after being taken third overall in last year’s draft, Milton didn’t have a realistic shot at the top job in New England. Now in Dallas, he’ll back up Dak Prescott, who is returning from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for eight games last season.
Milton saw limited action in his rookie year, appearing in just one game—leading the Patriots to a 23-16 win over the Buffalo Bills in Week 18. In that game, he threw for 241 yards and a touchdown, completing 75.9% of his passes, and added a rushing touchdown with 16 yards on the ground.
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