Dallas, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys have made a strategic move to bolster their quarterback depth by acquiring second-year player Joe Milton III from the New England Patriots in a trade. The deal involves the Cowboys sending a fifth-round pick to the Patriots in exchange for Milton and a seventh-rounder, enhancing the team’s options behind starting quarterback Dak Prescott.
Milton, who was drafted in the sixth round by the Patriots last year, provides a promising addition to the Cowboys’ quarterback roster, which previously only included Prescott and Will Grier. The 25-year-old quarterback showcased his potential in his final game of the season with the Patriots, demonstrating his abilities by completing passes for 241 yards and a touchdown, along with a rushing score against the Buffalo Bills.
For the Patriots, trading Milton allows them to maximize an asset they did not plan on utilizing, as they have solidified their starting quarterback position with Drake Maye and added veteran backup Joshua Dobbs. This opportunity gives Milton the chance to compete for the No. 2 spot on a team and gain experience working alongside a seasoned veteran, which was not likely to happen with the Patriots.
The acquisition of Joe Milton III addresses the Cowboys’ need for a reliable backup quarterback, especially after the departure of Cooper Rush. In recent years, the backup quarterback position has proven crucial for the Cowboys, with instances where backups like Rush had to step in due to Prescott’s injuries. Milton now joins Grier in competing for the primary backup role, potentially reducing the urgency for the Cowboys to draft a quarterback in the upcoming draft.
For the Patriots, trading Milton was a strategic decision to add capital ahead of an essential draft. With only two quarterbacks on their roster post-trade, the Patriots may consider drafting a late-round prospect or pursuing an undrafted free agent to further bolster their depth at the position. This move signifies the Patriots’ commitment to optimizing their resources for future success, setting the stage for a potentially transformative draft season.