Patriots Regret Trading Joe Milton III

Boston, MA – July 4, 2025

The New England Patriots are grappling with a growing sense of regret over their decision to trade quarterback Joe Milton III to the Dallas Cowboys earlier this year, leaving a void in their backup quarterback position that threatens the development and stability of franchise quarterback Drake Maye, sources told ESPN on Friday.

Milton, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was traded to Dallas on April 3, 2025, for a fifth-round pick (No. 171) and a seventh-rounder (No. 217), a move that initially seemed strategic to clear cap space and focus on Maye. However, the lack of a suitable backup has since sparked concern within the organization. “We misjudged the depth we needed behind Drake,” an unnamed Patriots official admitted to The Boston Globe. Milton, who appeared in one game for New England in 2024 (Week 18), showed promise with his powerful arm and mobility, throwing for 87 yards in limited action.

Maye, the No. 3 overall pick in 2024, has emerged as the team’s cornerstone, posting 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 12 starts during his rookie season. Yet, his inconsistency—marked by nine fumbles and a concussion in Week 8—highlights the risk of relying solely on him, especially with a shaky offensive line that allowed 42 sacks in 2024, per Pro Football Focus. The current backup, Josh Dobbs, signed to a two-year deal in the offseason, brings 9 years of NFL experience but has struggled as a starter (21-21 record) and lacks the upside to step in seamlessly, recording a 77.3 passer rating in 2023 with Tennessee.

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged the oversight, stating, “Joe gave us a different dimension. Losing him has left us thin.” The trade, executed when the team had $12 million in cap space, now looks premature as Maye’s health remains a concern following a minor ankle sprain in OTAs. GM Eliot Wolf defended the move, noting, “We believed in Drake’s growth,” but analysts question the depth strategy, especially with Dobbs’ 1-2 record in relief appearances last year.

Fans on social media are vocal, with posts like “Milton trade was a mistake!” and “We need a real QB2!” reflecting frustration. As training camp nears on July 23, the Patriots’ lack of a perfect backup could jeopardize their 2025 playoff hopes, particularly against a tough AFC East. Can they address this gap, or will Maye’s burden prove too heavy? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates.