Drake Maye, the Patriots’ No. 3, is getting better with every snap and has shown qualities worthy of being their franchise QB for years to come, which has impressed many, including HC, Jerod Mayo.
During a press conference, Mayo highlighted the progress Maye has made and how much he likes what he sees from his rookie QB, pointing out that the UNC graduate did not handle setbacks well in the first half of the preseason.
But now that training camp has ended and the season is approaching, he has shown significant progress in handling adversity and exhibiting mental toughness, something Mayo believes is one of the most important traits a franchise QB should have.
“You remember, in the beginning he was throwing interceptions and he was so down. I would say now that we’re leaving camp, he’s gotten a lot better at pulling the nose of the plane up when it looks like it’s going to crash. I think that’s an important trait.” said Mayo.
#Patriots HC Jerod Mayo says Drake Maye improved his mental strength during training camp:
“You remember, in the beginning he was throwing interceptions and he was so down. I would say now that we’re leaving camp, he’s done a lot better and is able to pull his nose… pic.twitter.com/tb46PTT8t1
— Carlos Talks Pats (@LosTalksPats) 23 August 2024
In his preseason debut against the Panthers, Maye lasted just one drive and completed just two passes for 19 yards. In comparison, the Patriots’ other rookie QB, Joe Milton, shone and delivered a more convincing performance, increasing the pressure on the first-round pick.
However, in the second game against the Eagles, he was able to spend more time on the field and performed much better. He participated in 24 plays, completed 6/11 passes for 47 yards and scored a rushing TD. The UNC graduate was louder and more composed, outperforming his quarterback rival Jacoby Brissett.
Despite a much improved performance, Maye was inconsistent in the second half of the game against the Eagles and was slow to read the ball, leading to stagnation. His big throws were missing receivers, which shows a clear need for improvement.
He will have a full year to improve and learn the pro offense, as Mayo plans to stick with Brissett next season.
Drake Mayo is still a work in progress for Jerod Mayo
The Patriots’ young HC reiterated his statement from last week, trusting the veteran Brissett despite Maye clearly outperforming him. For their final preseason game against the Commanders, Mayo stated his intention to put the veteran in the starting lineup.
However, the UNC alumnus will be used as a second baseman like he was in the last game and will get more snaps. He also explained that both Milton and Zappe will get some playing time. The Patriots plan to re-use most of their starters, unlike many other teams who don’t want to risk that. This also shows the depth of Mayo’s QBs for the regular season.
Brissett will start the season, barring injury, and will keep his job regardless of the results. Maye will take on the role of backup and will only move into the starting lineup when he proves he has surpassed Brissett and is ready.
