Joe Milton joins Cowboys: A depth addition or a future star in making?

The Dallas Cowboys have made an intriguing move by acquiring quarterback Joe Milton from the New England Patriots. While it may not be a headline-grabbing trade, it raises multiple questions about the Cowboys ’ strategy. Are they simply filling out their quarterback depth chart, or do they see Milton as a potential long-term piece? With a strong arm and raw athleticism, Milton brings undeniable upside, but can he refine his skills under Dallas’ system? Could this be a low-risk, high-reward move that pays off down the line?


Dallas Cowboys bolster QB depth with Joe Milton acquisition



With Dak Prescott as the unquestioned starter, the Cowboys needed to solidify their backup situation after losing Cooper Rush to free agency. Milton now joins Prescott and Will Grier, adding depth to a room that lacked an experienced No. 2 option. While Milton isn’t expected to challenge Prescott, Dallas knows firsthand how crucial a capable backup can be last season’s injury to Prescott forced backups into key roles.


Milton, 25, was a sixth-round pick by New England in the 2024 NFL Draft but found himself the odd man out when the Patriots signed veteran Josh Dobbs. His only NFL start came in Week 18, where he helped lead the Patriots to a 23-16 win over the Buffalo Bills. However, that game featured Buffalo resting starters, making it difficult to evaluate Milton’s full capabilities.


At 6’5” and 246 pounds, Milton has the ideal size and a cannon for an arm, earning him the nickname "Bazooka Joe." His final season at Tennessee saw him throw for 2,813 yards, 20 touchdowns, and five interceptions, proving he can stretch the field. However, scouts have raised concerns about his accuracy and ability to make quick decisions under pressure—two areas that can determine a quarterback’s longevity in the league.


The Cowboys coaching staff will have a project on their hands, but they’ve successfully developed quarterbacks before. Prescott himself was a fourth-round pick who wasn’t expected to start immediately, yet he took over and never looked back. If Milton soaks in the system and refines his game, he could become a valuable asset down the road.


Joe Milton’s future with Cowboys


While this trade appears to be a simple depth move, it could have future implications. Prescott is under contract for now, but with ongoing contract negotiations, Dallas might be looking at alternative options. Could Milton be a long-term project the Cowboys want to develop just in case? Or is he merely a short-term backup to ensure they have a competent No. 2?


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At the very least, the Cowboys have secured a physically gifted quarterback with plenty of room to grow. If he shows promise in training camp and preseason, he could cement himself as more than just an insurance policy. Whether this trade turns into a hidden gem or just a depth addition, Milton’s time in Dallas will be one to watch.