The Pittsburgh Steelers are in desperate need of a starting quarterback for the 2025 season. All signs are pointing to Aaron Rodgers being their top option, and Pittsburgh is just waiting for him to make his decision. While they wait, an interesting alternative has emerged in New England Patriots quarterback Joe Milton III.
Milton had a breakout performance in the 2024 regular season finale, completing 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards, throwing one touchdown, and rushing for another in a dominant showing against the Buffalo Bills. Of course that game didn't really mean anything and in fact hurt the Patriots draft position. However, that one game significantly boosted his trade stock, and the Patriots reportedly have a high asking price.
New England knows what they have in quarterback Drake Maye and appears set on moving forward with him as their franchise leader. Because of this, the Patriots are open to trading Milton, believing he has the potential to help another team rather than sitting behind Maye. Steelers fans have floated the idea of acquiring Milton, hoping he could develop into a future star. However, after NFL insider Tony Grossi revealed the Patriots' steep price tag for the young quarterback, excitement in Pittsburgh may be cooling off.
"Sources closer to the situation than me expect the asking price of the Patriots to be a third-round pick," Grossi said.
While Milton has undeniable talent and upside, the Steelers must weigh whether he’s worth the cost. The team has already taken big swings in recent years, acquiring Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, only for their quarterback situation to remain in flux. If Rodgers ultimately declines to join Pittsburgh, Milton could remain an option, but it would likely take serious negotiations to lower New England’s demands. Until then, Steelers fans will keep their focus on Rodgers' decision, knowing that their quarterback search may be far from over.
Even if the Steelers were interested in making a deal for Milton, it’s clear that they wouldn’t be bringing him in as an immediate starter. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Milton’s breakout performance against the Bills greatly boosted his trade value, and now the Patriots are looking to capitalize on it. They’re also reportedly keen on finding Milton a better opportunity, as they know his path to a starting role in New England is unlikely with their focus on Maye.
Initially, Steelers fans were intrigued by the idea of trading for Milton, thinking the asking price would be relatively low. However, with the Patriots reportedly demanding a third-round pick for the young quarterback, that price tag is likely to turn off most fans. Given the steep cost, many Pittsburgh supporters may now be reconsidering the idea of acquiring Milton, especially when factoring in the uncertainty surrounding his development.
For the Steelers, who are already eyeing high-profile quarterbacks like Rodgers, the price for Milton may simply be too high, especially when considering other potential options. With the Patriots looking to maximize his trade value, the Steelers' hope for a low-cost solution may be dashed, leaving them with tough decisions to make as they continue their quarterback search.
Steelers Could Select A Quarterback In The 2025 NFL Draft
The Steelers seem to be the most likely team to land Rodgers, who at 41 years old would provide Pittsburgh with at least two seasons of competitive play before age becomes a serious concern. That window would give the Steelers valuable time to search for their next franchise quarterback. While the team brought back Mason Rudolph, he seems to be solidified in a backup role, leaving the Steelers in need of a long-term solution.
Pittsburgh could strike a deal for Rodgers and still pursue a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. Whether they opt for an early pick on a potential star like Jaxson Dart or look for value in an older prospect such as Tyler Shough, the Steelers' quarterback situation remains full of intrigue. As they weigh their options, it's clear that how they approach the draft could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the franchise.
Milton's high price tag, however, could be a major deterrent for Pittsburgh. If the Patriots' demands don't come down, it’s likely that the Steelers will look elsewhere. With their attention focused on Rodgers and a potential draft pick, the Steelers may ultimately pass on Milton, despite his impressive performance against the Bills. The quarterback carousel in Pittsburgh is far from over, and how it plays out in the coming months will be fascinating to watch.
