In what is quickly becoming an annual tradition, the Dallas Cowboys have traded for a young backup quarterback once again. Last off-season, the team acquired former first-round pick Trey Lance from the San Francisco 49ers. Although Lance remains on the roster, quarterback Cooper Rush has signed with the Baltimore Ravens, creating a need for a new backup in the quarterback room. Consequently, the Cowboys opted to explore the trade market.
Dallas has now secured quarterback Joe Milton from the New England Patriots in exchange for a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. ESPN’s Adam Schefter broke the news:
Trade: New England is sending QB Joe Milton to the Dallas Cowboys, sources tell ESPN. With Cooper Rush going to Baltimore, Dallas now has a new backup for Dak Prescott. pic.twitter.com/AIVVuvsel2
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 3, 2025
Milton began his college career at Michigan, where he spent three seasons and started five games during the COVID-19-affected 2020 season. He then transferred to Tennessee, playing three seasons with the Volunteers. In 29 games, he became the full-time starter in the 2023 season, throwing for 20 touchdowns and adding seven rushing touchdowns. Although his time with the Patriots was limited, Milton started in the season finale against the Buffalo Bills, leading the team to a 23-16 victory with a performance of 22-for-29 passing for 249 yards, one passing touchdown, and a rushing touchdown.
Reactions on social media regarding the trade were abundant:
“QB controversy in Dallas? Tomorrow on _____”
— Ross Tucker (@RossTuckerNFL) April 3, 2025
Will be the starter by Week 6 📈
— Victor Williams (@ThePhillyPod) April 3, 2025
It’s so impressive how Joe Milton turned 1 game in a meaningless week 18 game into a buzzing market lol https://t.co/7LhYaV6g9p
— JP Acosta (@acosta32_jp) April 3, 2025
Having a boring backup is brutal. They’re a backup for a reason (not very good) and boring football is the worst. If my QB is hurt, at least make it fun. Joe Milton is fun and showed signs of his special traits in limited playing time last year. All for it.
— Connor Livesay (@ConnorNFLDraft) April 3, 2025
