According to a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter, the New England Patriots are finalizing a trade to send quarterback Joe Milton and a seventh-round pick to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a fifth-round pick. This move comes as the Patriots seek to adjust their quarterback roster ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, providing a new opportunity for the second-year signal caller.
The Patriots selected Milton in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and throughout the season he served primarily as the third-string quarterback behind starter Drake Maye and backup Jacoby Brissett. His most notable on-field contribution came in the last game of the season against the Buffalo Bills.
Entering the game after Maye's early departure, Milton completed 22-of-29 passes for 241 yards and accounted for two touchdowns, leading the Patriots to a 23–16 victory. His 48-yard touchdown pass to Kayshon Boutte was particularly notable, marking the second-longest first touchdown pass by a rookie quarterback in Patriots history.
Despite not seeing any action until Week 18, Milton showed that he had made solid development behind the scenes. During the preseason, he played in all three games for the Patriots, completing 11-of-30 passes (36.7%) for 152 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. He showed flashes of potential, including a 38-yard TD pass in the opener, but was up and down with accuracy and pressure, taking multiple sacks. Milton also displayed his impressive mobility, rushing for 57 yards on eight carries.
With Maye solidifying his role as the starting quarterback and the recent signing of veteran Josh Dobbs, Milton's opportunities in New England appeared limited. This trade to Dallas offers him a chance to compete for a more prominent role behind Cowboys starter Dak Prescott.
By acquiring an additional fifth-round pick in the upcoming draft, the Patriots enhance their flexibility to address various roster needs and could still look to add depth to their quarterback room. The 2025 NFL Draft features several late-round quarterback prospects who could be of interest:
- Riley Leonard, Notre Dame: A strong-armed, athletic quarterback with a tough playing style, Leonard could be an intriguing developmental piece behind the Patriots' current options.
- Will Howard, Ohio State: A prototypical big-bodied passer (6'5", 240 lbs) with solid pocket presence and arm strength, Howard has experience in a pro-style offense.
- Kurtis Rourke, Indiana: A polished passer with good accuracy and decision-making, Rourke would bring experience and leadership that could fit well in New England's system.
Adding one of these prospects could provide the Patriots with a developmental quarterback to groom behind Maye and Dobbs, ensuring depth and competition within the position group.
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