FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Minicamp is underway for the New England Patriots and 2024 sixth-round draft pick Joe Milton. The former Tennessee quarterback said his time with the Vols has put him ahead of the curve.
"Tennessee, you learn how to grow up fast," Milton said. "We kind of have the same schedule as how we have it here. Do everything in the morning and then your whole afternoon, you'd be off."
Milton said the Vols treated him and the other players like professionals, so it made for an easy transition into the early stages of a pro lifestyle.
"Tennessee sets you up for the NFL," Milton said. "Just the time off, how you manage your time, how you take care of your body."
Milton will not be the go-to guy for New England like he was in his final season at Tennessee. The Patriots selected North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye with the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, but Milton said he is making the most of the offseason.
"It's been very rewarding, but also a humbling experience as well," Milton said. "Coming from Tennessee, being a starter, and then coming here having other guys taking reps, it humbles you. At the same time, it's always been me learning from the older guys, and when my time comes I'll be ready for it."
The Patriots begin the preseason against the Carolina Panthers on Thursday, Aug. 8 at 7 p.m.
