The offseason buzz continues to revolve around Joe Milton, the intriguing quarterback who turned heads with his impressive performance against the Buffalo Bills. The New England Patriots have been fielding calls about him, and it’s clear why teams are eyeing Milton: he’s the kind of player who can bring a jolt to an offense, especially considering this year’s quarterback draft class isn’t the strongest.
As we look at the Cleveland Browns, it’s apparent they find themselves in a bit of a quandary at the quarterback position. They’ve made just one addition to the room this offseason, which leaves the door wide open for more moves as they search for the right answer under center. While many might anticipate they could target a QB in the draft, a trade is another viable route, and Milton certainly fits the bill.
Currently, Deshaun Watson and Kenny Pickett are the only names on the Browns’ quarterback depth chart. Watson’s health remains an uncertainty after a setback from his ACL tear, putting more pressure on the decision-makers in Cleveland. If Watson can’t go for the 2025 season, the Browns could be left with only Pickett, which isn’t an ideal scenario.
Cleveland is eyeing options in the upcoming draft, potentially looking at notable names, but adding a player like Milton could enhance their flexibility. It’s a delicate balance; drafting a quarterback could help their future, but it also means passing on significant defensive talent—like Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter—that could shore up their defense.
So what might a trade look like? The proposed deal would have the Patriots send Milton to the Browns in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick and a sixth-rounder.
Milton’s stats from his final season at Tennessee speak volumes about his potential. He threw for 2,809 yards and 20 touchdowns with only five interceptions, boasting a solid 64.7% completion rate. His mobility added another layer to his game, as he rushed for 403 yards and seven touchdowns. In that eye-opening game against the Bills, he showcased his arm strength, throwing for 241 yards and one touchdown with a remarkable 75.9% completion rate and an average depth of target (ADOT) of 10.5 yards.
As Milton’s name rises in trade discussions, reports indicate he’s seeking a chance to compete for a starting role, something that seems unlikely with the Patriots investing in Drake Maye. In contrast, joining the Browns might offer him that opportunity. With the current uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation, Milton could step in and have a legitimate shot at being the starter under head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Exploring alternatives like Kirk Cousins might seem appealing, but his contract and the price tag could complicate matters. On the other hand, Milton, at just 25 years old and still on his rookie deal, presents a more attractive option for a team looking to build for the future. If he develops as many believe he can, Cleveland could find themselves with a quarterback who not only competes but elevates their offense.
