The Philadelphia Eagles have struggled to generate explosive plays throughout their six-game losing streak, but Joe Milton III brings an element that could change how opposing defenses approach Sean Mannion's offense.

Milton will make his first NFL start Sunday against the New York Giants, replacing Tanner McKee after Philadelphia managed just 15 points per game during McKee's three starts. The Eagles enter Week 9 averaging 265.3 total yards and 17.1 points per contest. Injuries, inconsistent protection, and limited explosive production have contributed to an offense that has struggled to sustain drives.

Milton won't immediately correct those problems, but his exceptional arm strength gives Mannion opportunities to expand the passing game and challenge defenses vertically.

Joe Milton can stretch defenses downfield

The 6-foot-5 quarterback possesses one of the strongest throwing arms in the NFL, allowing him to attack deep portions of the field without requiring extensive time in the pocket. Milton has completed 37 of 53 career passes for 424 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. In his most extensive NFL appearance, he completed 22 of 29 attempts for 241 yards and a touchdown during New England's 2024 season finale against Buffalo.

Across his limited NFL career, Milton has averaged 8 yards per pass attempt, showing he can generate yardage when given opportunities. The Eagles could use that arm strength to challenge safeties with vertical routes, deep crossing patterns, and throws outside the numbers. Even when those passes aren't completed, consistently threatening defenses downfield can influence coverage responsibilities and create more space underneath.

Play-action could create better opportunities

Philadelphia's passing game has suffered from an inability to consistently establish the running game, making it easier for opponents to anticipate obvious passing situations. Milton's physical traits provide Mannion with opportunities to incorporate play-action, deep overs, and moving-pocket concepts designed to create space behind linebackers.

His ability to throw accurately over long distances also allows the Eagles to attack the opposite side of the field without requiring receivers to work through multiple coverage adjustments.

However, Philadelphia must be careful not to ask Milton to hold the ball too long against an aggressive Giants defense.

New York enters Sunday ranked third against the pass, allowing 184.9 yards per game, and defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson has frequently used pressure to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. Quick decisions, sound protection and a balanced approach will remain essential.

Eagles' receivers must take advantage of Milton's arm

With DeVonta Smith and Dontayvion Wicks ruled out, Philadelphia will need increased production from rookie Makai Lemon, Darius Cooper, and its remaining available receivers.

Milton's arm strength could create opportunities for Lemon to attack vertical routes and generate explosive plays after the catch. Cooper also provides another option for downfield throws, while Dallas Goedert and Eli Stowers can work underneath when defenses attempt to protect against deeper completions.

The challenge is finding the proper balance between aggression and efficiency.

Milton has struggled with accuracy and touch at times during his development, and throwing the football harder doesn't necessarily translate into better production. The Eagles need to combine his ability to challenge defenses vertically with manageable completions that keep the offense ahead of the chains.

Philadelphia has spent much of the season searching for an offensive identity. Milton's arm strength creates an opportunity to run a more aggressive passing attack, but its success will depend on protection, receiver execution, and Mannion's ability to find favorable matchups.

For an offense desperate to produce explosive plays, Milton offers possibilities that haven't consistently materialized through eight games.