The New England Patriots traded Joe Milton III and a seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to the Dallas Cowboys for a fifth-round pick last week. The decision shocked fans as it came just weeks ahead of the draft.
The Patriots front office prioritized having a veteran serve as Drake Maye's backup, according to NFL insider Albert Breer, who wrote:
Breer reported that New England told free agent addition Joshua Dobbs they planned to move Milton III before the draft in assurance that he would be the backup quarterback. He signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Patriots, marking his ninth team in as many seasons.
Maye appeared in 13 games, making 12 starts, as a rookie. He threw for 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and ten interceptions. The third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft completed 66.6% of his pass attempts, adding 421 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 54 carries.
Milton III, selected in the sixth round of last year's draft, will now serve as Dak Prescott's backup with the Cowboys. The three-time Pro Bowler missed the final games of the 2024 season after tearing his hamstring.
