The Cowboys made a surprising move by trading for quarterback Joe Milton III. Just a year after selecting Trey Lance in the fourth round, they sent a fifth-round pick to the New England Patriots to bring Milton on board.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his excitement about the acquisition. He mentioned that Milton’s performance in his last game with the Patriots was impressive, and he has not disappointed since joining the team. According to Jones, the Cowboys are feeling more hopeful about Milton’s potential.
It seems the Patriots decided to move on from Milton because he wasn’t ready to accept a backup role behind Drake Maye. This decision aligns with their strategy of building a strong locker room dynamic, focusing on Maye as their future.
In a recent preseason game against the Rams, Milton completed 17 out of 29 passes, totaling 143 yards. He scored one touchdown but also threw an interception, resulting in a passer rating of 68.6. He added some mobility with 22 rushing yards on five attempts, showcasing his dual-threat ability. However, he left the game in the fourth quarter due to an elbow injury, which the Cowboys have downplayed as a bruise.
Milton is now poised to step in if starter Dak Prescott faces further injury this season. Prescott missed nine games in 2024 due to a hamstring issue, raising questions about durability and consistency at the quarterback position.
This situation isn’t just a Cowboys story; it highlights a broader trend in the NFL. With teams placing increasing value on backup quarterbacks, the depth of a team’s roster is more vital than ever. According to a recent survey, 67% of NFL teams believe having a reliable backup can significantly impact their season. As injuries are common in the sport, Milton’s role could prove crucial for the Cowboys moving forward.
In summary, while Dallas fans are optimistic about Joe Milton III, only time will tell if he can become a reliable option behind Dak Prescott. This situation is still evolving, and all eyes will be on how Milton performs in the upcoming games.
Source link
