Dallas, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys have made a strategic move by acquiring quarterback Joe Milton III from the New England Patriots, a source confirmed. This trade adds depth and intrigue behind starting quarterback Dak Prescott, as the Cowboys send a fifth-round pick to the Patriots in exchange for Milton and a seventh-rounder.

Milton, a second-year player, was drafted by the Patriots in the sixth round last year and spent most of the season as the third-string quarterback. However, he had a standout performance in the final game of the season, showcasing his potential by leading the Patriots to victory over the Buffalo Bills with an impressive passing and rushing display.

With only Prescott and journeyman Will Grier on their depth chart prior to this move, the addition of Milton provides the Cowboys with a valuable asset. This acquisition reflects Dallas’ willingness to take chances on young quarterbacks with high ceilings, as seen in their previous trade for Trey Lance in 2023.

For the Patriots, trading Milton was a strategic move to capitalize on an asset they did not plan on utilizing. With Drake Maye as the starting quarterback and Joshua Dobbs as the backup, Milton now has the opportunity to compete for the role of the team’s No. 2 quarterback and gain experience behind a veteran player.

The Cowboys’ search for a backup quarterback intensified after Cooper Rush departed for the Baltimore Ravens in free agency. Acquiring Milton aligns with the team’s desire to explore potential trade opportunities and adds depth to their roster. This trade marks the second time in three years that Dallas has brought in a young backup quarterback, following the acquisition of Lance in 2023.

In recent years, having a reliable backup quarterback has proven crucial for the Cowboys. With Prescott facing injuries in previous seasons, backups like Rush have been called upon to step up in critical moments. Milton’s arrival will intensify competition for the backup spot, potentially alleviating the need for the Cowboys to target a quarterback in the upcoming draft.

For the Patriots, trading Milton allows them to accumulate assets ahead of an important draft, positioning them to make strategic moves to support their ongoing rebuild. With Milton’s departure, the Patriots have two quarterbacks on their depth chart and may look to add further depth through late-round picks or undrafted free agents in the upcoming draft.