The Dallas Cowboys have acquired Joe Milton III to serve as their backup quarterback through a trade with the New England Patriots. This move follows the Cowboys' earlier efforts to develop Trey Lance, which did not yield the expected results.
The trade was facilitated by the Patriots' depth at quarterback, particularly with franchise quarterback Drake Maye and the recent addition of Joshua Dobbs. In exchange for Milton, the Cowboys sent a late-round pick, specifically the 171st overall selection, to the Patriots, allowing Dallas to shift back to the 217th pick in the 2025 draft.
While the Cowboys initially had high hopes for Milton after his debut in 2024, concerns arose during training camp regarding his readiness for a starting role. Last season, he played limited snaps, primarily in situations where the outcome was already decided, which showcased both his potential and some mistakes.
To enhance their quarterback lineup, the Cowboys also signed free agent Sam Howell, providing a more seasoned option. Recent practices have shown Milton making notable strides in decision-making and composure, raising optimism among fans about his potential contributions this season. The Cowboys have yet to clarify their plans for Milton and Howell as they continue to assess their options ahead of the season.
