The New England Patriots made an interesting move in the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton III in the sixth round. This decision raised eyebrows, especially considering they had already chosen UNC quarterback Drake Maye with their top pick. Despite concerns about Milton’s deep ball placement, he offers size, athleticism, and one of the strongest arms in his draft class. After spending time as a backup at Michigan, Milton became the full-time starter at Tennessee in 2023, putting up impressive numbers both passing and rushing.
Patriots Insider Phil Perry sees the potential in Milton and believes the team made a good decision in taking a chance on him in the late rounds of the draft. While accuracy and anticipation may need improvement, Perry points out that Milton’s arm strength and ability as a runner make him a threat on the field. The coaching staff’s ability to work with Milton and hone his talents could make him a valuable asset for the team in the future. Perry gives the pick an A grade, highlighting the exciting prospect of pairing Milton with Maye in the Patriots’ quarterback room.
The Patriots acquired the pick that they used to select Milton from the Jacksonville Jaguars in the trade involving Mac Jones. By essentially swapping Jones for Milton and adding him to a quarterback room that already includes Maye, the Patriots have diversified their options for the 2024 season. While having five quarterbacks on the roster may seem like an unusual choice, the team’s willingness to take risks and explore different possibilities could pay off in the long run. The addition of Milton brings depth and competition to the quarterback position.
Despite concerns about Milton’s accuracy and decision-making in the passing game, there is a consensus that his physical attributes and potential upside make him a worthwhile gamble for the Patriots. With his size, arm strength, and running ability, Milton brings a dynamic element to the quarterback position that could add a new dimension to the Patriots’ offense. While it may take time for him to adjust and develop his skills further, the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities bodes well for his future with the team. The Patriots’ decision to take a chance on Milton reflects their willingness to think outside the box and explore different paths to success.
It will be interesting to see how Milton fits into the Patriots’ plans moving forward and how he competes with the other quarterbacks on the roster. The team’s investment in both Maye and Milton shows a commitment to building depth and talent at the quarterback position, ensuring that they have options for the future. While the decision to draft Milton may have initially raised questions, it highlights the team’s willingness to take risks and make bold moves in pursuit of success. As the Patriots continue to shape their roster and develop their players, Milton’s presence adds an intriguing dynamic to the team and sets the stage for an exciting season ahead.
