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Former Patriots QB 'Fancied Himself a Starter'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jordan Woodson | Last updated Apr 7, 2025 10:38 AM ET

Earlier this week, the New England Patriots made a curious roster decision. After initially asking for a third-round pick in return for quarterback Joe Milton III, the team practically gave him away to the Dallas Cowboys.

The Patriots traded Milton and a seventh-round pick (No. 217 overall) to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a fifth-round pick (No. 171 overall).

While the team's initial asking price of a third-round pick was always seen as unrealistic, few expected them to settle for so little. They traded an ascending quarterback talent to move up 46 spots in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Although Milton was impressed in preseason, he was relegated to third-string duties for much of his rookie season. However, when given the opportunity in Week 18, he showcased the same athleticism and arm talent that stood out in August.

Albeit against mostly backups, Milton completed 22 of 29 pass attempts for 241 yards. He had one touchdown and zero interceptions in New England's 23-16 victory over the Buffalo Bills.

On the surface, it makes zero sense for New England to give a talent like that away. However, according to one report, there may be more to the story.

Karen Guregian of Mass Live reports, "Based on intel gathered from sources during the week, Milton fancied himself a starter. He didn’t see himself being given a legitimate chance to compete with Drake Maye."

Guregian added, "He also believed he was good enough to give Maye a run, if not overtake him for the top job. If that chance didn’t exist, Milton preferred being elsewhere, somewhere he had a better chance to compete for the starter’s job."

While Milton's ambition to compete for a starting position is understandable, he faces a similar challenge in Dallas. Although playing for the Cowboys is reportedly a "dream come true," he has transitioned from holding a clipboard in New England to doing the same in Dallas.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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