Joe Milton: College Stats, Highlights, Eagles Starting QB and Arm Strength

Joe Milton III is one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the NFL. Known for his exceptional arm strength, athleticism and ability to make explosive plays, Milton has attracted attention throughout his football career.

The Philadelphia Eagles have now given Milton an opportunity to lead their offense. After joining the team in October 2026, the quarterback is preparing to make his first NFL start against the New York Giants in Week 9.

Here is everything to know about Joe Milton’s college stats, career highlights, starting status with the Eagles and impressive throwing arm.

Is Joe Milton Starting for the Eagles?

Yes. The Philadelphia Eagles named Joe Milton their starting quarterback for Week 9 against the New York Giants on November 8, 2026.

The decision came after the Eagles placed Jalen Hurts on injured reserve and Tanner McKee struggled during three consecutive starts. Milton will become Philadelphia’s third starting quarterback of the season.

The Eagles signed Milton from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad on October 16, 2026. He had previously played for the New England Patriots and Cowboys.

Milton’s starting opportunity comes at an important time for Philadelphia. The team has lost six consecutive games and hopes his athleticism and deep-passing ability can help improve its offense.

However, Milton has limited NFL experience. His performance against the Giants will be an important test of his readiness to become a starting quarterback.

Joe Milton College Stats

Joe Milton played college football for the Michigan Wolverines and Tennessee Volunteers. He spent three seasons at Michigan before transferring to Tennessee in 2021.

He played six college seasons and appeared in 43 games, making 21 starts.

College career statistics

Milton’s strongest college season came in 2023, when he became Tennessee’s full-time starting quarterback.

He completed 229 of 354 passes for 2,813 yards, 20 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also rushed for 299 yards and seven touchdowns.

His ability to combine powerful throws with mobility made him one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Joe Milton Highlights

Milton’s college career featured several memorable performances that demonstrated his potential as an NFL quarterback.

Orange Bowl MVP performance

One of Milton’s biggest college highlights came in the 2022 Orange Bowl.

After Tennessee starting quarterback Hendon Hooker suffered a season-ending injury, Milton took over the starting role. He led the Volunteers to a 31-14 victory over Clemson.

Milton completed 19 of 28 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns. His performance earned him the Orange Bowl MVP award.

Impressive 2023 season

Milton established himself as Tennessee’s starting quarterback in 2023.

He threw for 2,813 yards and 20 touchdowns while adding seven rushing touchdowns. His ability to make deep throws and extend plays helped Tennessee remain competitive throughout the season.

Strong NFL debut

Milton made his NFL regular-season debut with the Patriots in Week 18 of the 2024 season.

He completed 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and one touchdown against the Buffalo Bills. He also rushed for a touchdown, helping New England secure a 23-16 victory.

The performance demonstrated his potential, although he has yet to establish himself as a regular NFL starter.

How Strong Is Joe Milton’s Arm?

Joe Milton is widely regarded as one of the strongest-armed quarterbacks in football.

His ability to throw the ball deep downfield has been a defining feature of his game since college. He can generate considerable velocity and make throws that few quarterbacks can attempt.

Milton’s arm strength became particularly popular during his time at Tennessee. In December 2022, he participated in a challenge in which he threw an actual orange approximately 100 yards.

The unusual demonstration highlighted his exceptional throwing power and became one of his most memorable viral moments.

His physical abilities have continued to attract attention in the NFL. However, arm strength alone does not guarantee success at quarterback.

Milton must also demonstrate accuracy, decision-making, touch and consistency to become a dependable NFL starter.

Joe Milton NFL Career Stats

Milton entered the NFL after the New England Patriots selected him in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

He played one regular-season game for New England in 2024 before joining the Dallas Cowboys in 2025.

Regular-season statistics

Milton has also recorded 66 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown during his NFL regular-season career.

Although his NFL experience remains limited, his physical tools and preseason performances have kept him in the conversation as a potential starting quarterback.

What Makes Joe Milton Different?

Milton brings a combination of size, arm strength and mobility that makes him an intriguing quarterback prospect.

At 6 feet 5 inches tall, he has the physical dimensions teams often look for in a quarterback. His ability to throw deep passes can create opportunities for explosive plays.

He can also use his athleticism to escape pressure and gain yards on the ground.

However, his biggest challenge is consistency. Milton must improve his accuracy and decision-making while learning to operate an NFL offense under pressure.

His first start with Philadelphia will provide a clearer picture of how much progress he has made.

Conclusion

Joe Milton’s college stats, impressive highlights and powerful throwing arm have made him one of the more intriguing young quarterbacks in the NFL.

After playing for Michigan, Tennessee, New England and Dallas, he now has an opportunity to lead the Philadelphia Eagles.

Milton’s starting debut against the Giants could be a major moment in his professional career. His arm strength and athleticism give him considerable potential, but his ability to make accurate throws and protect the football will ultimately determine how successful he becomes.

FAQs

Is Joe Milton starting for the Eagles?

Yes. The Eagles named Milton their starting quarterback for Week 9 against the New York Giants on November 8, 2026.

What college did Joe Milton attend?

Milton played college football at the University of Michigan and the University of Tennessee.

What were Joe Milton’s college stats?

He finished his college career with 4,303 passing yards, 20 passing touchdowns, five interceptions and 11 rushing touchdowns.

How strong is Joe Milton’s arm?

Milton is known for exceptional arm strength and the ability to make deep throws. He famously threw an orange approximately 100 yards during a challenge at Tennessee.

What NFL teams has Joe Milton played for?

Milton has played for the New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 2026.

When was Joe Milton drafted?

The New England Patriots selected Milton in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, with the 193rd overall pick.