The NFL world was abuzz as the New England Patriots finalized a trade sending quarterback Joe Milton III to the Dallas Cowboys. The move, which involved swapping Milton and a seventh-round pick for the Cowboys’ compensatory fifth-round pick, marks a new chapter for the young quarterback, who spent just one season in New England.
While Milton expressed gratitude for his time with the Patriots, he made it clear he sees this transition as a chance to grow and contribute in Dallas.
Joe Milton III Embraces New Opportunity in Dallas
The move for Milton comes after the Cowboys lost veteran backup Cooper Rush to the Baltimore Ravens in free agency. Milton, a sixth-round pick in 2024, gained recognition during his first career start in the Patriots’ season finale against the Buffalo Bills.
He showed potential by completing 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for another score in a 23-16 win. Despite limited NFL experience, Milton’s performance caught the attention of teams looking for a capable backup.
Trade talks between Dallas and New England reportedly began weeks ago and picked up during the NFL’s annual meeting. With Dak Prescott recovering from surgery after tearing his hamstring last season, the Cowboys were looking to add depth at quarterback.
Before finalizing the deal for Milton, Dallas explored signing Jacoby Brissett and Drew Lock but ultimately shifted to the trade route.
New #Cowboys QB Joe Milton III tells me: “My family grew up a Cowboys fan. My mom always had a Cowboys shirt on. She always talked about them. Living in Texas has been a longtime dream of mine. And now I’m with them. I’m ready to work.” https://t.co/kNDFPA4yem pic.twitter.com/XuLmR3KWgZ
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report)
Milton shared his excitement about joining the Cowboys and said the franchise has always meant something to him.
“My family grew up a Cowboys fan. My mom always had a Cowboys shirt on. She always talked about them. Living in Texas has been a longtime dream of mine. And now I’m with them. I’m ready to work.”
Milton now joins a quarterback room that includes Prescott and Will Grier, giving Dallas a young and athletic backup option. While Prescott remains the starter, the Cowboys may look to use Milton’s mobility in specific offensive packages.
For the Patriots, the trade adds draft capital as they continue their rebuild. With Drake Maye set as the starter and Joshua Dobbs recently signed as a backup, New England saw a chance to move Milton while still getting value in return.
Some analysts say New England could’ve received a better deal given the interest in Milton, but teams across the NFL have been more cautious about trading picks this offseason.
For the Cowboys, bringing in Milton is seen as a smart move that gives them a promising young QB without much risk. As the offseason continues, Dallas will evaluate how to best fit Milton into their plans for the season ahead.
