The New York Giants are embarking on the search for their next franchise quarterback, with the team holding the third overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While securing a top quarterback through the draft seems like the most straightforward route, general manager Joe Schoen is also considering other options, including free agency and trade opportunities, to address the position.
Schoen made it clear during his end-of-season press conference that all avenues are on the table for upgrading the quarterback spot, saying: “We’ve done a lot of work on the college guys. [Giants owner John Mara] mentioned that we will look at free agency, can also look throughout the draft. [Also] potential trade opportunities, so we will look at any avenue we can to upgrade the position” (h/t SNY).
Could the Giants Trade for Joe Milton III?
One quarterback currently generating trade rumors is New England Patriots rookie Joe Milton III. Despite being drafted in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Milton’s future with the Patriots might be uncertain, especially after the team selected Drake Maye with the third overall pick in the same draft. Maye is expected to be the Patriots’ franchise quarterback, which could make Milton expendable.
Milton, known for his athleticism and strong arm, impressed in his Week 18 appearance when the Patriots pulled Maye early in the game. He completed 75.9% of his passes, throwing for 241 yards, one touchdown, and rushing for another score. His performance showcased his potential, and his physical traits—standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 235 pounds—make him an intriguing prospect.
Milton’s Potential and Trade Value
Milton’s combination of size, arm strength, and dual-threat ability has generated buzz since his time at the University of Tennessee. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein praised him as a “rare physical specimen” with the arm talent to make all NFL throws. With such a skill set, his trade value is on the rise, especially following his strong Week 18 performance. While the Patriots originally drafted Milton in the sixth round, they might expect more than that in return given his showing and the potential upside.
Milton could serve as valuable insurance behind Maye for New England. The Patriots might be reluctant to trade him away so soon, particularly when both quarterbacks from the 2024 draft class offer significant upside. A trade might not be in their best interest, especially given the rarity of possessing two high-potential rookie quarterbacks.
What Could the Giants Offer?
If the Giants want to acquire Milton, they may need to offer more than a sixth-round pick, as they would be acquiring him with one year already off his contract. Still, trading for Milton presents a unique opportunity for the Giants to bring in a quarterback with immense developmental upside. Whether as a backup or potentially a future starter, Milton would be an exciting addition to the Giants’ quarterback room.
While the Giants’ primary focus will likely remain on drafting their own quarterback, trading for Milton could provide them with a high-ceiling backup option, and potentially a long-term solution, depending on how his development unfolds.
