When it comes to the New England Patriots quarterback situation, it feels like Drake Maye is Lloyd Christmas in the movie Dumb and Dumber.
“So you’re telling me there’s a chance.”
That’s exactly what Jerod Mayo, the Patriots’ new head coach, said, even if it sounds like more lip service, as everything points to Jacoby Brissett being New England’s starting quarterback when the season opens at the Cincinnati Bengals in just over two weeks.
Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt reiterated Mayo’s statement during a meeting with reporters on Thursday, but also seemed to indicate that Maye would initially serve as Brissett’s backup.
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“Sure. Coach said it’s an open competition,” Van Pelt told reporters when asked if Maye could start in Week 1, according to a video provided by the team. “We’ve got one more game to go, obviously. I’m sure there’s a chance. Going in there, you still have to learn how to bring in a rookie quarterback. I think that’s important to remember, too.”
The Patriots have not yet announced exact details of their plan for Maye, but it’s clear it’s different from that of other teams that selected a quarterback in the first round of this year’s draft. Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix, who was selected after Maye, will all start for their respective teams.
While Van Pelt is certainly encouraged by Maye’s progress during training camp, the Patriots will need to be patient in selecting their future quarterback.
“I think it’s just a matter of bringing him along,” Van Pelt said. “There are certain things in that offense, and Jacoby, having played in that offense, knows some of the tools you can use to get out of certain situations, pressure situations and things like that that Drake is still learning. But he’s been really impressive the last couple weeks of practice and in the game and he’s definitely moving in the right direction.”
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“But again, Jacoby, a rookie quarterback coming in and playing, obviously has a ton of experience. Not just in the NFL, but in this system, and we won games with him in Cleveland. So I’m happy with his understanding. But again, Drake is pushing.”
