Enticing new QB option arises for Steelers on 2025 trade market

Milton showed flashes whenever he played during the 2024 regular season, but he is behind Drake Maye on New England's depth chart. Maye is expected to be the franchise quarterback for the Patriots as he was selected with the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, so Milton should be considered expendable. 

Milton was the Patriots' sixth-round selection in 2024, but on Monday, the organization agreed to a deal with Josh Dobbs. Dobbs has been a successful backup quarterback with multiple NFL teams, so New England's move gives them a chance to trade Milton.

The 25-year-old Milton had some issues with accuracy during his college career. He is a raw athlete and brings a ton of mobility to the position. He only played in one game for the Patriots during the 2024 season, completing 22 of his 29 passes for 241 yards and a touchdown. 

He also ran for 16 yards and a touchdown in the game, and his team won over the Buffalo Bills, as they rested most of their starters in the final week of the regular season.

Steelers should take chance on Joe Milton III

Milton is by no means a sure-fire option at quarterback for Pittsburgh, and he would have to earn the opportunity to see the field. However, there is some excitement behind the quarterback and how he played at the end of the 2024 season. 

It would be good for the Steelers to have a young face in the quarterback room that can have the chance to go on to become the future of the franchise.

A trade to acquire Milton shouldn't be expensive, and the Steelers have plenty of draft capital to pull something like this off. He is on a cheap rookie deal, so the financial side of the potential deal wouldn't be a factor. 

It should be a no-brainer to at least inquire with the Patriots about getting a deal done, and it is kind of a necessity considering the current state of the quarterback room in Pittsburgh.