Could Joe Milton III Play in 2025?

Among the many anticipated moves the Patriots were expected to make this offseason, one of the most closely watched was the decision regarding the future of second-year quarterback Joe Milton III. Ultimately, the Patriots opted to trade Milton to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick. This move had been widely rumored and seemed inevitable, as the Cowboys quickly integrated Milton into their practice squad. It didn’t take long for him to make headlines, thanks to his remarkable performance on the field—most notably his exceptional arm strength, which immediately caught the attention of fans and analysts alike.

Milton’s combination of elite arm talent, solid athleticism, and prototypical quarterback size makes him, in the eyes of some scouts and coaches, a near-ideal prospect. The potential has always been clearly evident in Milton, but the lingering question remains whether that potential can truly be unlocked and translated into consistent on-field success. That question, it seems, is what truly intrigued Jerry Jones and the Cowboys organization. Over recent seasons, their confidence in veteran Dak Prescott has appeared to diminish, largely due to Prescott’s ongoing injury concerns and inconsistent play.

Prescott has managed to appear in only 15 games over the past two seasons due to various injuries, leaving Dallas in a precarious position at quarterback. Adding a young, talented player like Milton—who shows flashes of high-ceiling potential—creates a compelling dynamic and serves as a sort of insurance policy for the Cowboys. This combination of factors sets up the perfect storm for a possible quarterback transition during the season, especially if Prescott’s health or performance falters once again. In this context, the acquisition of Milton signals that Dallas is preparing for multiple scenarios, keeping their options open at the most critical position on the roster.