The Cleveland Browns are considering adding Joe Milton to their quarterback roster, which is already full.
Milton, who used to play for Tennessee and Michigan, is not one of the most highly-regarded quarterbacks, but he has impressive athletic talent. had a pro day on March 27, where he demonstrated strong arm and physical skills, running a 4.55 40-yard dash at 245 pounds.
Milton told Jordan Reid of ESPN that he plans to meet with the Browns soon, which is interesting because Cleveland already has Deshaun Watson, Jameis Winston, Tyler Huntley, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson under contract. The Browns selected Thompson-Robinson in the fifth round last year.
But maybe Milton's amazing athletic ability has caught Cleveland's attention. Additionally, Browns owner Jimmy Haslam attended Tennessee.
Milton threw for 2,831 yards, 20 touchdowns and five interceptions last season at Tennessee, completing 64.7 percent of his passes. He added 299 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns on the ground.
Joe Milton Does Not Have Consistency to Succeed at NFL Level
Getty ImagesJoe Milton is expected to be a Day 3 pick in the NFL Draft.
Milton's physical abilities are impressive, but he is not a polished quarterback and lacks some of the qualities needed to be a top prospect. NFL.com's Lance Zierlein analyzed Milton's draft profile.
"Milton is a rare physical specimen with excellent arm talent, but he struggles with timing, accuracy, and touch, preventing him from fully utilizing his skills. His consistent inconsistency with deep throws and reading defenses holds him back, despite his ability to make exciting plays. Scouts may still consider drafting him on Day 3 due to his physical attributes, but his lack of growth over six seasons is concerning."
Milton received a 5.80 prospect grade on NFL.com, projecting him as an average backup. ESPN NFL draft analyst Matt Miller expects the New York Jets to pick Milton in the seventh round of the NFL Draft in April.
Browns Confident in Deshaun Watson
The Browns' success next season relies heavily on Watson, but the investment in the former Pro Bowl QB has not been fruitful for Cleveland. The Browns traded three first-round picks for Watson in 2022 and also gave him a five-year, $230 million contract. He has only played in 12 games since the trade due to a suspension and injuries. Watson is currently recovering from a season-ending shoulder surgery and has recently started throwing.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski met with Watson in Los Angeles in mid-March and is satisfied with the quarterback's progress.
Kevin Stefanski said, 'It was wonderful. Ken [Dorsey] and I traveled there, spent a day in L.A., and had dinner with Deshaun. He's in good physical condition and the surroundings are beautiful. He's also doing well with his rehab.' according to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com. 'So it was more of me checking in, catching up with him, and starting to build a relationship with Ken, which was the most important part.'
Dorsey was hired this offseason to become the Browns offensive coordinator, replacing Alex Van Pelt. Watson has shown enthusiasm for the hiring.