The Dallas Cowboys have made a move to bolster their quarterback depth, acquiring New England Patriots backup quarterback Joe Milton and a seventh-round pick in exchange for a fifth-round pick. While this may not be a blockbuster trade, it carries implications for both franchises, particularly for the Cowboys as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Dallas Cowboys Trade For A Backup Quarterback
For Dallas, this move is all about adding depth at the quarterback position. Dak Prescott remains the undisputed starter, but the Cowboys had a void to fill at the backup position. Cooper Rush was a reliable backup for several seasons, but he signed a contract with the Baltimore Ravens. While Trey Lance, a former first-round pick, signed with the CFL for 2025. The Cowboys clearly felt that Lance was not good enough to be kept on the roster as the backup. Adding Milton to the mix fills the void behind Prescott.
Joe Milton
Joe Milton is a former Tennessee standout. He is known for his incredible arm strength but can struggle with consistency and accuracy. Milton made one start for the Patriots at the end of the season and was electric. He completed 22 of his 29 passing attempts for 241 yards and two touchdowns, one on the ground. The Cowboys clearly saw the potential in this game and in his raw talent. Dallas’ new head coach Brian Schottenheimer has experience working with quarterbacks who have strong arms. Milton could benefit from a system that prioritizes downfield passing, if he ever steps into the starting role for the Cowboys.
Impact on the New England Patriots
For New England, moving on from Milton signals that they are comfortable with their current quarterback situation. Drake Maye will be the franchise quarterback for years to come. Currently, Josh Dobbs is the backup quarterback for the Patriots. New England clearly feels comfortable with Dobbs backing up Maye this season and wanted to gain something in return for Milton.
Although it is currently unclear who the third string will be for New England, the team does not seem very concerned about it. It is likely they will address this by signing someone in free agency.
Final Thoughts
This trade is unlikely to make headlines, but it does have significance for both teams. For the Dallas Cowboys, it provides a backup quarterback with upside, ensuring they have depth behind Prescott, who has struggled with injuries in the past. For New England, it’s a low-risk move that gives them additional draft capital. After Milton showed his potential last season, the Patriots felt this was a good time to move him. Milton is very likely going to be stepping into the backup role right away in Dallas, barring another move from the Cowboys front office.
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