Joe Milton III is certainly a name generating buzz around the NFL, especially considering his three-year commitment with the New England Patriots. Recent whispers from the NFL sphere, specifically from Greg A. Bedard, suggest that a trade could be on the horizon for this talented young quarterback.
Milton’s end-of-season performance truly elevated him into the spotlight. In the last game against the Buffalo Bills—a matchup where the Bills opted to rest key players—Milton showcased his skills. Carving through the defense, he completed an impressive 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards, adding a passing touchdown and a rushing score to his tally. While some might downplay this performance due to the circumstances, it’s hard to ignore how he managed the game with poise and precision.
What’s most intriguing about Milton isn’t just his stats or even that standout game; it’s his physical prowess. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 235 pounds, he possesses one of the strongest arms seen in the league. His athletic ability allows him to elude pressure and extend plays—qualities that immediately catch the eye of teams in need of a quarterback. And let’s face it: his potential is hard to overlook, particularly for those teams searching for a game-changer behind center.
Milton further captured attention during the preseason against the Carolina Panthers, where he went 4 of 6 for 52 yards and a touchdown. Again, the competition wasn’t at full strength, but the flashes he displayed reaffirmed the belief that his raw talent is worth taking a chance on, especially for franchises looking for a fresh face at quarterback.
Now, the journey from being a sixth-round draft pick to potentially blossoming into a franchise quarterback is not without its hurdles. Milton’s college career had its fair share of ups and downs. While he showcased tantalizing potential, inconsistencies marred his college tape—particularly when it came to touch and precision. For six seasons, he honed his craft, but the natural expectations of a polished passer never fully materialized.
Despite these challenges, there were notable performances that hinted at his capabilities. His success in Tennessee’s run-pass option (RPO) offense allowed him to utilize his athleticism effectively, drawing comparisons to dual-threat quarterbacks like Josh Allen. When you view his highlights, especially those from the highly competitive Alabama game, you see a player who could handle pressure well, make critical throws, and assert himself on crucial downs.
As the NFL landscape evolves, it’s worth noting the history of backup quarterback trades. Teams like the 49ers and Jets have successfully navigated trades to acquire future assets by parting with promising quarterbacks. Should Milton be traded, expectations would likely center around a mid-round pick, perhaps a combination of third and fifth-round selections.
Speaking of trade possibilities, let’s consider the Seattle Seahawks. Geno Smith may currently hold the reins, but with fresh leadership under head coach Mike MacDonald, the team will need to contemplate what lies beyond his tenure. Recent moves hint at a focus on younger quarterbacks, making Milton a compelling option. Providing a low-risk opportunity to evaluate a talent like Milton could yield significant rewards without the hefty price tag typically associated with first-round picks.
While the landscape remains fluid, Joe Milton III checks all the boxes for teams looking to invest in a quarterback who balances raw talent with tremendous upside. As the offseason unfolds and trade discussions heat up, his name will likely continue to surface in conversations around player movement, making the coming months an intriguing period for both him and any teams willing to take a chance.
