Introduction: A Blockbuster Trade Shakes Up the NFL
In a move that has sent ripples through the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys have acquired quarterback Joe Milton III from the New England Patriots in a trade finalized on April 3, 2025. This transaction marks a significant shift for both franchises, as the Cowboys look to bolster their quarterback depth behind starter Dak Prescott, while the Patriots part ways with a promising young talent. With Cooper Rush signing with the Baltimore Ravens and Trey Lance failing to secure a definitive role, the arrival of Joe Milton signals a fresh chapter in Dallas Cowboys news. This blog post dives deep into the details of the Joe Milton trade, his background, the implications for the Cowboys, and what fans can expect moving forward.
The Trade Details: What Went Down?
On April 3, 2025, the NFL announced that the New England Patriots traded Joe Milton III and a seventh-round draft pick to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. This deal, first reported by NFL insider Ian Rapoport, underscores the Cowboys’ proactive approach to addressing their quarterback situation. For Dallas, the trade represents a cost-effective acquisition of a player with high upside, while the Patriots gain a slightly higher draft pick to fuel their ongoing rebuild.
The timing of the trade is noteworthy. With Cooper Rush’s departure to Baltimore, the Cowboys needed a reliable backup for Dak Prescott. Rather than waiting for the Joe Milton draft pick scenario to play out in a future draft, Dallas opted to secure Milton now, giving them control over his development for the next three years. This move contrasts with their earlier trade for Trey Lance, where they surrendered a fourth-round pick for just two years of service.
Who Is Joe Milton III?
To understand the significance of this trade, let’s explore the man at the center of it: Joe Milton III. Born on March 6, 2000, in Pahokee, Florida, Milton’s journey to the NFL has been one of resilience and raw talent. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 235 pounds, he possesses the physical tools that make scouts drool—arm strength that rivals the league’s elite and a frame built for durability.
Milton’s college career began at the University of Michigan, where he played from 2018 to 2020. However, limited playing time prompted a transfer to the University of Tennessee in 2021. It was with the Volunteers that Milton truly began to shine. In his final collegiate season, he threw for over 2,800 yards, 20 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, showcasing his ability to command an offense. His cannon-like arm and surprising mobility for his size earned him a sixth-round selection by the Patriots in the 2024 NFL Draft—the Joe Milton draft moment that launched his professional career.
Despite his potential, Milton saw minimal action in New England, overshadowed by a crowded quarterback room. Now, with the Cowboys, he has a chance to carve out a meaningful role.
Why the Cowboys Made the Move
The Dallas Cowboys’ decision to trade for Joe Milton is rooted in both necessity and strategy. First, let’s consider the departure of Cooper Rush. A fan favorite and a dependable backup, Rush’s exit left a void behind Dak Prescott. While Rush wasn’t a long-term solution, his reliability in spot starts—most notably during Prescott’s 2022 injury—made him a valuable asset. His move to Baltimore forced Dallas to act swiftly.
Next, there’s the Trey Lance factor. Acquired in 2023 from the San Francisco 49ers, Lance was billed as a developmental prospect with starter potential. However, his tenure in Dallas has been underwhelming. Limited game time and inconsistent performances have raised doubts about his fit. In contrast, Milton offers a fresh start at a lower cost—both in terms of trade capital and salary cap implications.
Moreover, the Cowboys were reportedly eyeing a developmental quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. By acquiring Milton now, they avoid the uncertainty of the Joe Milton draft pick process and gain a player with intriguing traits: a rocket arm, poise under pressure, and three years of team control. As Cowboys beat writer Joe Hoyt noted, this trade mirrors their Lance acquisition but with a better long-term outlook.
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Comparing Milton to Lance and Rush
To fully grasp Milton’s potential impact, let’s compare him to his predecessors in Dallas: Trey Lance and Cooper Rush.
Joe Milton vs. Trey Lance
Both Milton and Lance entered the NFL as high-upside prospects with limited college starting experience. Lance, a third-overall pick in 2021, showcased dual-threat ability at North Dakota State, but his transition to the pros has been rocky. Milton, a later-round pick, relies more on his arm than his legs, though he’s no slouch as a runner. While Lance’s trade to Dallas cost a fourth-round pick, Milton’s acquisition required only a fifth-rounder—a bargain for a player with similar developmental potential. If Milton outperforms Lance in practice, he could leapfrog him on the depth chart.
Joe Milton vs. Cooper Rush
Rush, an undrafted free agent turned reliable backup, brought stability to the Cowboys’ quarterback room. His strengths—decision-making and accuracy—contrast with Milton’s raw, unpolished talent. Rush was a known quantity, posting a 4-1 record as a starter in 2022. Milton, however, is a wildcard. His arm strength surpasses Rush’s, but he’ll need to refine his mechanics and decision-making to match Rush’s poise. For now, Milton is a project, whereas Rush was a plug-and-play option.
The Cowboys’ Quarterback Room: Where Milton Fits
With the Joe Milton trade complete, the Dallas Cowboys’ quarterback hierarchy is taking shape. Dak Prescott remains the undisputed starter, fresh off a strong 2024 season that silenced doubters. Behind him, Milton and Lance will likely compete for the QB2 role, with Milton holding an early edge due to recency and cost efficiency.
Head coach Mike McCarthy has a history of developing quarterbacks, from Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay to Prescott in Dallas. Milton’s arrival gives McCarthy a new canvas to work with—a player whose physical gifts could translate into on-field success with the right coaching. Meanwhile, Lance’s future in Dallas hangs in the balance. If he can’t outshine Milton in training camp, his days with the Cowboys may be numbered.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The Dallas Cowboys news of Milton’s acquisition has sparked a range of reactions. On social media platforms like X, fans have expressed cautious optimism. Some see Milton as a steal—a high-ceiling talent acquired at a low cost. Others question whether he’s ready to step into Rush’s shoes, citing his lack of NFL experience.
Analysts, too, are weighing in. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, who first linked the Cowboys to Milton in March 2025, praised Dallas for their foresight. “The Cowboys are looking for a quarterback to develop behind Dak Prescott,” Fowler said. “Milton could be that guy.” Meanwhile, Locked On Cowboys host Brandon McCool highlighted Milton’s “intriguing traits,” suggesting he could thrive in Dallas’ system.
However, not all feedback is glowing. Some skeptics argue that Milton’s college stats, while impressive, came against weaker competition in the SEC. His limited snaps with the Patriots further fuel doubts about his readiness. Still, the consensus is clear: Milton’s potential makes this trade a calculated risk worth taking.
What Milton Brings to the Table
So, what exactly does Joe Milton III offer the Cowboys? Let’s break it down.
Arm Strength
Milton’s defining trait is his arm. During Tennessee’s 2023 Pro Day, he reportedly threw a ball over 70 yards with ease—a feat that turned heads across the league. This cannon-like ability could stretch defenses in ways Rush never could, giving Dallas a new dimension in their passing game.
Athleticism
Though not a dual-threat quarterback in the mold of Lamar Jackson, Milton’s size and speed make him a threat to escape the pocket. At Tennessee, he averaged over five yards per carry, a stat that hints at his untapped potential as a runner.
Upside
At 25 years old, Milton is still raw. His limited starting experience means there’s room to grow, but also a learning curve ahead. If McCarthy and offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer can harness his tools, Milton could evolve into a legitimate NFL backup—or even a trade asset down the line.
Challenges Ahead for Milton
Of course, Milton’s path in Dallas won’t be without obstacles. For starters, he’ll need to adapt to the Cowboys’ complex offensive scheme. Prescott’s success stems from years of mastering this system, and Milton will have to accelerate his learning to be effective. Additionally, his mechanics—sometimes described as unorthodox—require refinement to ensure consistency at the pro level.
Then there’s the pressure of playing for America’s Team. The Cowboys’ fanbase is notoriously passionate, and backups often face scrutiny when the starter falters. Milton will need to block out the noise and focus on development, a tall order for a young quarterback in such a high-profile market.
The Bigger Picture: Cowboys’ 2025 Outlook
The Joe Milton trade is just one piece of the puzzle for the Dallas Cowboys in 2025. With Prescott under contract and the team coming off a playoff appearance in 2024, expectations are high. The loss of Rush stings, but Milton’s arrival softens the blow, providing depth and potential at a critical position.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys aim to contend in the NFC East, a division stacked with talent. Milton may not see the field much in 2025, but his presence ensures insurance behind Prescott—a luxury Dallas hasn’t always had. If he develops as hoped, he could become a valuable asset, either as a long-term backup or a trade chip in future seasons.
Conclusion: A New Era for Joe Milton and the Cowboys
The trade for Joe Milton III marks a turning point for both the quarterback and the Dallas Cowboys. For Milton, it’s a chance to prove himself in a new environment, free from the logjam he faced in New England. For the Cowboys, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move that addresses an immediate need while keeping an eye on the future.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Milton’s progress. Can he outshine Trey Lance? Will he live up to the hype of his physical gifts? Only time will tell. For now, the Dallas Cowboys news of this trade has fans buzzing, and the stage is set for Milton to write the next chapter of his NFL story.
NFL.com – Official NFL site for player stats and trade updates.
ESPN.com – In-depth analysis of the Joe Milton trade.
DallasCowboys.com – Team-specific news and roster updates.
CBSSports.com – Expert breakdowns of Milton’s potential.
Patriots.com – Background on Milton’s time in New England.
FAQ
1. Who is Joe Milton III?
Joe Milton III is a quarterback traded to the Dallas Cowboys from the New England Patriots in April 2025. He played college football at Michigan and Tennessee before being drafted in 2024.
2. Why did the Cowboys trade for Joe Milton?
The Cowboys traded for Milton to replace Cooper Rush as Dak Prescott’s backup and to add a developmental quarterback with high potential, bypassing the uncertainty of the draft.
3. How does Joe Milton compare to Trey Lance?
Milton and Lance are both developmental prospects, but Milton’s arm strength stands out, while Lance offers more dual-threat ability. Milton’s trade cost was lower than Lance’s.
4. What was the Joe Milton trade package?
The Patriots sent Milton and a seventh-round pick to the Cowboys for a fifth-round pick, finalized on April 3, 2025.
5. What’s next for Joe Milton with the Cowboys?
Milton will compete with Trey Lance for the backup role behind Dak Prescott, with his development under Mike McCarthy being key to his future in Dallas.
