Joe Milton was a four-star recruit coming out of Orlando (Florida) Olympia High School. He originally signed with Michigan and played three seasons for the Wolverines, including a redshirt season as a true freshman. Milton transferred to Tennessee where he emerged as the starter for the first two games and served as the backup for the final 11 contests of the 2021 season. He finished 32 of 61 for 375 yards and two touchdowns. During the 2022 season, he returned as a starter following Hendon Hooker’s injury. He went undefeated in two starts and was named Orange Bowl MVP honors after tossing touchdown passes to three different receivers. Milton has also been active on the NIL front, signing multiple deals with The Volunteer Club and also engaging in a number of other partnerships. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in American culture from Michigan and pursued another bachelor’s degree at Tennessee in arts and science.