The Dallas Cowboys have made a strategic move by acquiring Joe Milton III as their backup quarterback after trading with the New England Patriots. This decision follows the Cowboys' previous efforts to develop quarterback Trey Lance, which did not yield the expected results.
The trade was facilitated by the Patriots' strong quarterback lineup, including franchise quarterback Drake Maye and the recent addition of Joshua Dobbs. Milton was traded to the Cowboys for a late-round pick, specifically the 171st overall selection, which allows Dallas to shift back to the 217th pick in the 2025 draft.
Milton initially showed promise during his one-game debut in 2024, exhibiting poise and accuracy. However, concerns arose during training camp as he demonstrated that he was still in development and not prepared for a starting position. Last season, he played limited minutes, primarily in situations where the game was already decided, showcasing both impressive moments and mistakes.
To enhance their quarterback lineup, the Cowboys also signed free agent Sam Howell, providing a more seasoned option as they approached training camp. Recently, Milton has shown notable improvement, with better decision-making and composure during practices, sparking optimism among fans regarding his potential contributions this season. The Cowboys are still assessing their plans for both Milton and Howell as the season approaches.
