The New England Patriots have been at the center of various trade discussions this offseason, with speculation not only about potential acquisitions but also about the possibility of them being sellers in the quarterback market. One of the key names emerging in trade rumors is Joe Milton III, whose performance in Week 18 last season caught the attention of multiple teams.
Milton, a 25-year-old signal-caller out of Tennessee, has reportedly been the subject of multiple trade inquiries, with teams looking to acquire the strong-armed quarterback. According to MassLive’s Mark Daniels and Karen Guregian, Milton has a clear preference for landing with a team that offers him a legitimate shot at competing for a starting role. Given the Patriots’ current quarterback situation, that opportunity may not come in Foxborough.
Milton’s Future in New England Remains Uncertain
The Patriots’ quarterback depth chart has taken shape following the signing of Joshua Dobbs to a two-year, $8 million contract to serve as Drake Maye’s primary backup. With Maye firmly entrenched as the team’s starter, Dobbs expected to play the role of a reliable veteran backup, and Milton projected as the third-string option, the Tennessee product faces an uphill battle for playing time.
While the Patriots would benefit from retaining depth at the quarterback position, Milton may not be keen on spending another season as the team’s third option. Having already spent his rookie campaign in that role, he is looking for a better opportunity elsewhere.
Patriots Open to a Trade but Will Likely Wait Until After the Draft
Head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged the possibility of a trade but emphasized that any move would likely take place after the 2025 NFL Draft. Teams are currently evaluating their quarterback needs and may reassess their depth charts following the draft before making a move for Milton.
For the Patriots, holding onto Milton provides insurance in case of injuries or underperformance, but if an attractive offer arises, they may be willing to part ways with the quarterback. The potential trade market for Milton could be robust, particularly for teams looking for a developmental player with a powerful arm.
Will Milton Find a New Home?
While it might seem ideal for the Patriots to have two quarterbacks with elite arm strength in their system, Milton’s desire for a more significant role could push him toward a new opportunity. As the draft approaches and teams finalize their rosters, a clearer picture will emerge regarding Milton’s future in the NFL. Whether he stays in New England or finds a new team to build his career, one thing is certain—Milton’s time as a third-string quarterback may be coming to an end.
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