The New England Patriots selected two rookie quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft, with Drake Maye being chosen as the No. 3 overall pick and Joe Milton being picked in the sixth round. There have been speculations that Milton may transition to a different position in the NFL due to his strong running ability, especially since he joined a Patriots team where Maye is expected to be the starting quarterback in training camp. Milton will have to compete with veteran quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Bailey Zappe, and Nathan Rourke for playing time.
Despite the talks of a potential position change, Milton has made it clear that he only wants to play quarterback and dismisses any suggestions of switching to another position. He spent six years playing college football, starting at Michigan before transferring to Tennessee in 2021. In his only official season with the Volunteers in 2023, Milton threw for 2,813 yards, 20 touchdowns, and five interceptions in 12 games. He also rushed for 299 yards and seven touchdowns on 78 attempts.
Milton’s time at Michigan was plagued by injuries and underperformance, with COVID-19 affecting his playing time as well. He was able to secure the starting role at Tennessee in 2021 but lost it due to injuries, allowing Hendon Hooker to take over. Despite the challenges Milton has faced in his college career, he remains committed to being a quarterback and is focused on making an impact in the crowded quarterbacks room with the Patriots.
With Maye likely leading the Patriots as the starting quarterback, Milton will have to work hard to earn playing time and establish himself in the team. He is determined to prove himself as a quarterback and is not considering switching to a different position. The competition in the quarterbacks room will be intense, with the veteran presence of Brissett and promising talents like Zappe and Rourke adding to the challenge for Milton.
Milton’s journey from Michigan to Tennessee has been marked by ups and downs, but he has shown resilience and determination throughout his career. Despite facing setbacks and challenges, he has continued to pursue his dream of being a successful quarterback. As he navigates the competitive environment of the NFL and the crowded quarterbacks room of the Patriots, Milton remains steadfast in his commitment to his position and his goal of making a mark in the league.
As Milton embarks on his NFL journey with the New England Patriots, he faces a tough road ahead in earning playing time and establishing himself in a talented quarterbacks room. With his college career shaped by injuries and setbacks, Milton is focused on making the most of his opportunity in the NFL and proving himself as a quarterback. His determination and dedication to his position will be tested as he competes with experienced players and promising rookies for a spot on the Patriots’ roster.
