The New England Patriots recently traded quarterback Joe Milton III to the Dallas Cowboys and received a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft in return.
This deal gives Dallas a young backup quarterback to replace Cooper Rush, who signed with the Baltimore Ravens this offseason.
Milton, selected by the Patriots in the 2024 NFL Draft, will now serve as Dak Prescott’s understudy.
NFL insider Albert Breer shed light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of this transaction, offering fans a glimpse into the negotiation process.
“One interesting piece of context. While there were talks with other teams, in the end, the Cowboys’ offer was the only one the Patriots had for QB Joe Milton. So they took the bird in the hand, and moved the 2024 sixth-rounder,” Breer wrote on X.
One interesting piece of context—While there were talks with other teams, in the end, the Cowboys’ offer was the only one the Patriots had for QB Joe Milton. So they took the bird in the hand, and moved the 2024 sixth-rounder.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) April 3, 2025
Milton’s departure from New England seemed almost inevitable following its signing of veteran quarterback Josh Dobbs to a two-year contract.
With Dobbs expected to provide experienced backup support for Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Milton found himself as the odd man out.
Despite limited playing time as a rookie, Milton showcased tantalizing potential with his rare combination of elite arm strength and impressive athleticism.
His ceiling remains high, making him an intriguing developmental prospect for Dallas. His performance against the Buffalo Bills in Week 18 offered a glimpse of his capabilities, but it wasn’t enough to change his trajectory in New England.
With Maye firmly entrenched as the quarterback of the future, Milton’s only path forward would have been competing with Dobbs for the backup position.
Instead, New England opted to capitalize on his potential value before the draft.
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