The New England Patriots are looking to turn the page after a rough 4-13 season, but there was one encouraging takeaway from 2024.
A promising quarterback emerged in Drake Maye, who earned a Pro Bowl alternate selection after completing 66.6% of his passes for 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Interestingly, New England may have secured two potential quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft.
A Late-Round Pick Drawing Interest
With the No. 193 pick, the Patriots selected former Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton III, an intriguing choice due to his physical attributes and his exceptionally strong right arm.
Milton saw limited action as a rookie, appearing in just one game, but that performance may have been enough to spark trade interest.
Greg Bedard of the Boston Sports Journal has reported that there is growing belief around the league that New England could be considering trading Milton this offseason.
While he is not currently on the trade block, Bedard notes that once the new coaching staff settles in, the idea could gain traction. If the Patriots decide to move him, some league executives believe they could receive as much as a third-round pick in return.
Milton’s Late-Season Performance
Milton’s preseason included a few eye-catching moments, one of which involved breaking two tackles and scrambling for 13 yards. However, it was in the Patriots’ regular-season finale against the Buffalo Bills that he had his most extended opportunity, grabbing the attention of many around the NFL.
In that game, Milton completed 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for 16 yards and another score, leading the Patriots to a 23-16 win. That victory, however, ended up costing New England the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Milton’s powerful arm was on full display throughout the contest, including a remarkable touchdown throw that was finally wiped out due to a penalty.
The Upside and Concerns Surrounding Milton
There is no question that Milton possesses the ideal size, athletic ability, and arm strength for a quarterback, but his development as a passer remains a work in progress.
Accuracy was a concern throughout his time in Knoxville, and his inconsistency raised doubts about his ability to lead an offense at the next level. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein even characterized his deep-ball placement and timing as “disturbing” when evaluating him as a draft prospect.
Despite those concerns, the potential is evident, and if the Patriots decide to make him available for trade, teams would likely show interest.
