The New England Patriots were repeatedly criticized for defeating the Buffalo Bills in the season finale and losing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Quarterback Joe Milton III, who played most of the game, went to his Instagram Live and responded to the noise of frustrated fans.
“I haven't played football since pre-season. If you were all in my shoes and you were all given the opportunity to play, why would you go out there and not show up and show up?'' Milton said. “Why should I go out there? So can you all talk about me when I lose? You want me to go out and lose, and you'll say, “Oh, I'm glad he lost so he can be traded.” And then what? Make it make sense.”
#Patriots QB Joe Milton on IG Live on not going first overall:
“I haven't played football since pre-season. If you were all in my shoes and given the opportunity to play, why would you go out there and not show up and show up? So can you all talk about me if I lose?” pic.twitter.com/521V4UKLN5
– New England Sports Fellow (@NESportsFellow) January 9, 2025
Milton played at a high level against the Bills, completing 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and a touchdown. He also managed a rushing touchdown in a game he finished with a completion percentage of 75.9.
His performance was a big reason why the Patriots were able to win 23:16. Unfortunately, the win caused them to drop down the draft board to the No. 4 overall pick.
Other than that, Milton was just playing for his job and his position on the team. It's the same with every player on the field in the NFL. It's part of competing in a performance-oriented league.
