Patriots make bold QB move: Why Joe Milton III’s trade could be a gamble

The New England Patriots are making significant waves this offseason, but not all of their moves are as straightforward as they might seem. After a deeply disappointing 4-13 season, head coach Mike Vrabel is taking decisive action to overhaul the team’s roster, with a sharp and strategic focus on revitalizing the quarterback position. While much of the media attention is centered around rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who promises to be the team’s future under center, a surprising decision has raised more than a few eyebrows: the trade of the promising young QB Joe Milton III to the Dallas Cowboys.


Joe Milton III showcased impressive talent during his brief appearances last season, including a notable debut in Week 18. With a cannon of an arm and raw potential, many believed he could be the future of the Patriots' quarterback room. However, the team’s decision to trade him for a fifth-round pick rather than developing him further, has many wondering if New England is betting too early on their new direction.
The Patriots are putting their chips on Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick in 2024, and veteran Joshua Dobbs as the backup. With a revamped offensive line and new playmakers like Stefon Diggs, New England is prioritizing stability and experience under center. But is moving on from Milton too soon?
Given Milton’s impressive athleticism and untapped upside, trading him now could very well be a missed opportunity for the Patriots. Teams with uncertain quarterback futures, especially those looking to rebuild, could have offered a more valuable return for Milton earlier in the offseason. By moving him so quickly, New England may have rushed the decision, potentially leaving room for regret if Milton goes on to find success as a starter elsewhere.
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The timing of the trade only adds to the uncertainty surrounding the move, raising more questions than answers. If Milton develops into a solid starter or even an elite quarterback down the line, the Patriots’ decision to trade him so soon could become a major regret. New England’s gamble on Drake Maye could certainly pay off, but only time will tell if they made the right call in letting go of a player with so much potential. For now, the Patriots are focused on the present, but the future of their quarterback situation remains anything but certain.