Patriots Sign Veteran QB to Support Drake Maye—But Fans Are Still Asking: What Happened to Milton?

In a move aimed at cementing stability behind their franchise quarterback, the New England Patriots signed veteran Joshua Dobbs to a two-year, $8 million contract in April 2025. The signing marked a clear signal from head coach Mike Vrabel: the Patriots are fully invested in Drake Maye as their starter and want a seasoned, supportive presence behind him—not a challenger.

Dobbs, 30, brings experience from six different NFL teams and is known for his intelligence, adaptability, and professionalism. While he may not turn heads with highlight-reel plays, his presence is exactly what the Patriots wanted in a backup: steady, low-drama, and mentoring-focused. As Vrabel sees it, Dobbs is here to help Maye grow into the role of a franchise QB—not to stir competition.

That wasn’t always the case in New England’s quarterback room. Fans still remember the late-season spark from Joe Milton III, the 2024 sixth-round pick who turned heads with a strong Week 18 performance against the Buffalo Bills. Milton threw for 241 yards and two total touchdowns, showing off the arm strength and athleticism that made him a dark horse fan favorite. For some, Milton represented potential and upside—a possible QB2 with starting-caliber traits.

But behind the scenes, the dynamics were more complex. Sources inside the organization suggest Milton wanted a chance to compete for a starting job, something that wasn’t going to happen with Maye firmly in place. Rather than risk tension in the locker room, Vrabel and the front office shipped Milton to the Cowboys in exchange for a fifth-round pick, freeing the room of internal conflict.

Drake Maye has already praised Dobbs’ influence. “Josh is a pro,” he said at OTAs. “He’s been in just about every system you can think of, and I’m learning a ton from him already.”

While some fans still wonder if Milton was let go too soon, the Patriots appear confident that Dobbs’ mentorship will offer more long-term value for Maye’s development. It’s a bet on harmony, maturity, and focused growth as New England prepares for what it hopes will be a playoff run.

The question now: Will Dobbs’ quiet leadership and Milton’s explosive potential end up defining two very different paths in the NFL? Time will tell.