After weeks of trade speculation, the New England Patriots have indeed decided to trade Joe Milton. The young quarterback, who was originally acquired as sixth-round selection in last year’s draft, is headed to the Dallas Cowboys.
According to a report by Adam Schefter of ESPN, New England is getting a fifth-round pick (171st) for Milton and a seventh-rounder (217th).
The 193rd selection last April, Milton spent a majority of his rookie season as the Patriots’ third-string quarterback behind Drake Maye and Jacoby Brissett. However, he did see extensive action in his in-game debut in Week 18.
Milton entered the Patriots’ season finale against the Buffalo Bills in the early first quarter and completed 22 of 29 pass attempts for 241 yards with a touchdown each as a thrower and a runner. New England ended up winning 23-16 to improve to 4-13 on the year.
Despite effectively playing against backups, Milton’s performance paired with Maye being secure as the starter made him a possible candidate to be moved this season. New England was reportedly looking for a third-round pick in a trade, but that goal was apparently not achievable.
With Milton now in Dallas, the Patriots have two quarterbacks remaining on their roster. Maye is joined by free agency signing Joshua Dobbs.