For the first time in over four decades, a draft strategy reminiscent of the 1983 selection of Tony Eason and Tom Ramsey has resurfaced. The Patriots have once again chosen to bolster their quarterback lineup, this time with the selection of two promising talents in the same draft class.
Former Tennesse quarterback Joe Milton will join Drake Maye in Foxboro as the newest member of the Patriots’ 2024 draft class.
Milton, 24, played six years of college football between Michigan and Tennessee. He officially appeared in 43 games, starting 21 contests. During those games, he compiled 5,353 yards, completing 400-of-650 passes for 37 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
Milton started his college career at Michigan in 2018 but transferred to Tennessee after three years. He became the Vols’ starter in 2023. In that season, he threw for 2,813 yards and 20 touchdowns, recording a 64.7% completion rate.
While Milton’s statistics may not immediately catch your eye, his unique physical attributes and exceptional athletic prowess are undeniably intriguing. The quarterback possesses an elite arm strength that he’s not afraid to showcase, hinting at the potential he holds for the Patriots’ offense.
Some have thought he could transition to tight-end in the NFL, but Milton isn’t open to the idea, saying, “That’ll never happen.”
Now, Milton joins fellow rookie Drake Maye, Jacoby Brissett, Bailey Zappe, and Nathan Rourke on the quarterback depth chart.
The Patriots’ approach in this draft has been simple: strengthen the offense. They have used six of their seven picks on offensive players. They have one more selection to make in the 2024 draft—231st overall.
My name is Ben Belford-Peltzman and I am the creator and writer of The Patriots Beat. I am a 17-year kid who is an optimistic pessimist about the City of Champions. I started The Patriots Beat in August of 2022 and never expected to grow so much but here we are. Feel free to email Thepatriotsbeat@gmail.com with any inquires.
