FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts – Just 3 hours after being removed from the Dallas Cowboys' roster, quarterback Joe Milton III quickly became one of the most sought-after names in the NFL free agency market.
With the Cowboys signing Sam Howell to compete for the QB1 position, Milton’s chances of competing for a spot at Dallas were essentially over. The team also announced their decision to trade Joe Milton III.
Milton, a promising backup quarterback who was selected by the New England Patriots in the 6th round of the 2024 NFL Draft, spent his rookie season at Foxborough before being traded to the Cowboys in 2025. Including his college and NFL career, he has recorded over 51 touchdowns and more than 5,413 total yards.
However, Milton didn’t waste time expressing his intentions.
Sources say he has expressed a strong desire to return to the New England Patriots, targeting a specific backup role within the team’s quarterback structure.
New England, currently led by Drake Maye and under the direction of coach Mike Vrabel, offers a familiar environment where Milton already knows the system and the organization that gave him his first NFL opportunity.
Although often overlooked, the backup quarterback position has become one of the most important roles in today’s NFL, and Milton seems fully prepared to embrace this responsibility.
“I’m ready to accept whatever role the team needs,” Milton said. “It’s not about titles — it’s about impact, preparation, and being ready when the opportunity comes.”
“New England feels like home to me. I want to contribute, support the locker room, and give my all in every single play.”
The role he is targeting carries significant weight. It demands more than just natural talent — it requires football IQ, adaptability, calmness under pressure, and a deep understanding of the offensive system. These are exactly the qualities Joe Milton has consistently demonstrated throughout his career.
He has had many standout performances, including games over 250 yards passing and leading clutch offensive drives late in games. His cannon arm and high football IQ have earned him praise from coaches across the league.
Financially, Joe Milton III is believed to be ready to accept a team-friendly salary, with experts predicting his next contract could range from $2 to $4 million annually, depending on role and bonus terms, to return to where his NFL journey began.
For the Patriots, bringing Milton back would not only add depth to the quarterback room. It would be a smart and calculated move, bringing in a young quarterback with proven physical tools, experience within the organization, and familiarity with the system — providing valuable insurance and competition behind Drake Maye.
Patriots fans have already started reacting with excitement at the possibility of a reunion. Many see this as a low-risk, high-potential opportunity to bolster the quarterback room with a familiar face.
Internally, the Patriots are expected to evaluate all available options. However, Milton’s swift and strong interest in returning has positioned him as a serious candidate from the start.
Just three hours after being notified of the trade by the Cowboys, Joe Milton III has taken control of his next career chapter.
As the Patriots continue to shape their roster for the 2026 season, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: Milton is not just looking for a team — he is searching for the right environment. And returning to New England may just be that.
