Patriots Tease Major QB Move Ahead of Week 11

The New England Patriots have seemingly found their quarterback of the future with Drake Maye. The prized rookie has shown significant improvement since taking over as the starting QB in Week 6. For the season, he is up to a 64.7% completion rate, a 7:5 TD: INT ratio, and a 2-3 record in five starts.

While Maye will continue to be the QB1 going forward, he is not the only signal-caller showing impressive development for the Patriots. On Friday, head coach Jerod Mayo highlighted fellow rookie Joe Milton III's strides in recent weeks.

Patriots News: Joe Milton III Showing "Huge Development"

Chris Mason of MassLive reported that the Patriots coaching staff has been impressed with Milton recently. Mayo said the talented rookie has been doing a great job in practice.

"He’s one of those guys that, he has to steal reps. Drake’s getting a lot of those reps. (Milton is) running the show team and doing a great job there. We also have a period at the end of practice where it’s just like, ‘Call it and go.’ Five or six plays. He’s getting better every day and going back to stealing reps, he’s one of the top users of the virtual reality system."

- Jerod Mayo on Joe Milton III

Milton had shown intriguing flashes in the preseason, showcasing his arm talent and explosive athleticism. All the tools he needs to thrive in the NFL are there but the former Tennessee standout has to put it all together.

The 24-year-old hasn't had a chance to make his NFL debut yet, as he has been the third-string quarterback behind Jacoby Brissett all season. The veteran QB is unlikely to stay in New England past this season, giving Milton a chance to step into the QB2 role going forward. It would behoove the Patriots to make that change before the end of the season so that Milton adjusts to his new role.

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