In a surprising move during the 2025 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots traded backup quarterback Joe Milton to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a mid-round pick. According to NFL insider Greg Bedard, the decision was influenced partly by a lack of chemistry in the quarterback room, especially with rookie Drake Maye. Bedard noted that Milton had reportedly become a problematic presence, with tensions building between him and Maye.
“The issue wasn’t about Maye specifically,” Bedard said on his recent appearance on the “Patriots Podcast.” “It was about the overall dynamic in the quarterback room. Milton didn’t seem willing to embrace his role or contribute to a collaborative atmosphere.”
Despite those reports, Maye spoke positively when asked about Milton’s departure.
“I reached out to Joe after the trade. We came in together, learned the offense side by side, and competed hard in practice,” Maye said. “He’s got a huge arm. It was great having someone to bounce ideas off of, especially with our shared college experiences. I’m glad he’s getting a new opportunity.”
Milton was part of a crowded quarterback competition in New England last season, earning a roster spot after being drafted in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year rookie deal worth over $4.2 million.
He became the second Tennessee quarterback taken in back-to-back drafts, following Hendon Hooker’s selection by the Lions the year before — a milestone the Volunteers hadn’t reached since the mid-1990s.
Milton spent three seasons at Tennessee, where he started in 2023, leading the team to an 8-4 record. That year, he completed 64.5% of his passes for 2,769 yards, 20 touchdowns, and five interceptions, while also rushing for 292 yards and six scores.
Prior to Tennessee, Milton played three years at Michigan, starting five games in 2020 during the COVID-shortened season. He went 2-3, throwing for 1,077 yards with four touchdowns and four picks, completing under 57% of his passes. The 6-foot-5, 246-pound Florida native transferred to Tennessee in 2021.
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