Patriots’ Joe Milton Trade Buzz: Is New England Ready to Move On?
The New England Patriots’ 2024 season was a rollercoaster, marked by offensive struggles and a constant search for consistency. However, amidst the challenges, a surprising development emerged in the final game of the season: the impressive performance of rookie quarterback Joe Milton III. In a Week 18 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, Milton showcased his potential, throwing for 241 yards and a touchdown, while also adding a rushing touchdown. This performance, which earned him a 95.8 PFF grade, the highest among all QBs in Week 18, has sparked a flurry of trade rumors, leaving many wondering if the Patriots are ready to move on from the young quarterback.
The Rise of Joe Milton
Drafted in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Milton was initially viewed as a developmental project. He spent most of the season as the emergency third-string quarterback, only seeing action in the final game due to the Patriots’ playoff elimination. However, his performance against the Bills was nothing short of spectacular. He completed 22 of 29 passes, displaying a strong arm and the ability to extend plays with his legs. This performance not only secured a win for the Patriots but also potentially altered the team’s offseason plans. Milton’s 61.71 mph pass earlier in the season also made history, further highlighting his rare arm strength.
Why the Trade Buzz?
Several factors contribute to the growing trade buzz surrounding Milton. Firstly, his impressive performance in the season finale significantly increased his value. NFL analyst Brian Baldinger suggested that Milton might be the best option for quarterback-needy teams. Secondly, the 2025 NFL Draft quarterback class is not considered particularly strong, making Milton a more attractive option for teams seeking a young quarterback with potential. Furthermore, the Patriots have their long-term franchise quarterback in Drake Maye, who had a solid rookie season, throwing for 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, earning him a Pro Bowl nod. With Maye seemingly entrenched as the starter, Milton’s path to playing time in New England is unclear.
Potential Trade Value
According to reports, some league executives believe the Patriots could acquire a third-round pick in a trade involving Milton. Patriots Wire’s Jordy McElroy also suggested the same value in an earlier trade opinion piece. While a third-round pick is the ideal scenario, a fourth or fifth-round pick is also considered a reasonable return. The Patriots could use this draft capital to address other needs on their roster, such as the offensive line, which has struggled significantly, allowing their quarterbacks to be pressured on a league-high 47.4 percent of dropbacks.
The Patriots’ Perspective
The Patriots are in a rebuilding phase, and accumulating draft picks is crucial for their long-term success. Trading Milton could provide them with valuable assets to address multiple needs. However, they also need a reliable backup quarterback behind Maye. Jacoby Brissett is currently the backup, but his future with the team is uncertain. The Patriots could choose to keep Milton as Maye’s primary backup, but that would mean passing up on a potential trade that could yield significant draft capital.
Teams That Could Be Interested
Several teams could be interested in acquiring Milton. Teams like the Los Angeles Rams, who are potentially looking for a successor to Matthew Stafford, or the Cleveland Browns, who could use a cheap, young quarterback to compete with Deshaun Watson, could be potential suitors. Other teams that may be in the market for a quarterback include the Miami Dolphins, who have had issues with Tua Tagovailoa’s health, and the Pittsburgh Steelers, who may not keep both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields.
The Offensive Struggles
The Patriots’ offensive struggles in 2024 were well-documented. They ranked 27th in scoring, averaging just 20.4 points per game. The offensive line was a major issue, with injuries and inconsistent play plaguing the unit. The team also struggled to find consistent production from their rookie wide receivers, with only Drake Maye showing consistent progress. Former Patriots QB Brian Hoyer has emphasized the need to solidify the offensive line as a top priority. The Patriots’ new offensive coordinator will need to find ways to improve the offense and better protect the quarterback.
The Quarterback Depth Chart
Currently, the Patriots’ quarterback depth chart consists of Drake Maye, Jacoby Brissett, and Joe Milton III. While Maye is the clear starter, the backup position is less certain. The team could opt to keep Milton as the backup, trade him for draft capital, or even sign a veteran quarterback in free agency. The Patriots have a lot of decisions to make this offseason, and the quarterback position is certainly one of the most intriguing.
Conclusion
The Joe Milton trade buzz is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NFL. His impressive performance in the final game of the season has put the Patriots in a unique position. They have a young quarterback with potential, but they also have a need for draft capital to continue their rebuild. Whether they choose to trade Milton or keep him as a backup, the decision will have a significant impact on the team’s future.
What do you think the Patriots should do with Joe Milton? Should they trade him for draft picks, or keep him as a backup to Drake Maye? Share your thoughts in the comments below!