The Dallas Cowboys have traded with the New England Patriots to acquire Joe Milton III as their new backup quarterback. This move follows the Cowboys' previous efforts to develop Trey Lance, which did not yield the desired results.
The Patriots, benefiting from a strong quarterback lineup with franchise player Drake Maye and the recent addition of Joshua Dobbs, decided to trade Milton in exchange for a late-round draft pick, the 171st overall. This trade allows Dallas to move back to the 217th position in the 2025 draft.
Initially, the Cowboys had high hopes for Milton, who showed potential during his debut in 2024, but concerns arose during training camp about his readiness for a starting role. Last season, he played limited minutes, primarily in games that were already decided, where he displayed a combination of impressive moments and critical errors.
To enhance their quarterback options, the Cowboys also signed Sam Howell, providing a veteran presence as they approached training camp. Milton has since shown notable improvement in practices, demonstrating better decision-making and composure. This progress has sparked optimism among fans regarding his ability to contribute effectively this season. The Cowboys have yet to clarify their plans for Milton and Howell as the season approaches.
