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NFL Rumors: Patriots to Consider Joe Milton Trade; Execs Project 3rd-Round Price Tag

Andrew Peters

Joe Milton reportedly drew interest in his limited action this season.

According to the Boston Sports Journal's Greg Bedard (h/t NESN's Adam London), "some league executives" believe the 24-year-old could be worth a third-round draft pick in a potential trade. Bedard also noted the Patriots "will likely consider" trading the quarterback.

"I thought the Patriots would hold off on entertaining a trade of Joe Milton, who was drafted in the sixth round (193rd overall) last year, for at least another season, but there's increasing belief around the NFL that the Patriots are at least contemplating a trade of Milton this offseason," he wrote. "Again, I'm not saying he's on the block right now, but the Patriots will likely consider it when everything settles with the front office and coaching staff."

Milton, who spent three seasons at Michigan and three seasons at Tennessee, didn't get much attention coming out of college. In his final year with the Vols in 2023, he had 2,813 passing yards and 20 touchdowns, adding 299 rushing yards and seven scores on the ground.

New England took him in the sixth round after picking Drake Maye with the No. 3 selection. Milton had just one chance to display his skills during his rookie season, and he made the most of it.

In the Patriots' season finale against the Buffalo Bills, Milton completed 22 of his 29 pass attempts for 241 yards and picked up two total touchdowns.

He posted those outstanding numbers against a Bills team that had little to play for, having already secured its playoff position, but the potential was on full display.

Even though he shined in his sole appearance, Milton won't be starting in New England any time soon after Maye's strong rookie year. The North Carolina product threw for 2,276 yards and 15 touchdowns in 13 games, proving he's capable of being the Patriots' starter for years to come.

With Maye fully established as the starter, it could be worth shopping Milton around ahead of the draft. Even if he's not starting quarterback material, a handful of teams would likely be willing to give up at least a third-round pick to ensure they have a solid backup.

   

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