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The Drake Maye era has begun for the New England Patriots.
The player selected as the number 3 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft made his season debut against the Carolina Panthers on Thursday, marking the beginning of what Pats fans hope will be a brilliant career.
Despite only playing one series, he looked solid in his first appearance against NFL competition, completing two of his three passes for 19 yards and appearing composed despite the added pressure that comes with playing at the next level.
After fans got their first look at Maye, many expressed excitement about his upcoming rookie year, while others lamented that he only played one series.
Nolan @PatriotHoncho
Pats RB Gibson is going to be really good. Drake Maye…way better than Mac Jones. Huge upgrade. #Patriots
But Maye wasn’t the only rookie quarterback to wow fans Thursday. Former Tennessee star Joe Miltion, whom the Patriots selected in the sixth round, completed four of his six passes for 54 yards and a touchdown, showing off his massive arm.
Milton’s play got Patriots fans excited about their two rookies.
Adam Pellerin @Subscribe
“Man, the Patriots drafted Joe Milton in the sixth round. Do you know who else was drafted in the sixth round???”
“Thomas Edward Patrick, damn Brady.” pic.twitter.com/onBKv1Sb7T
The Patriots have a tough game against the Philadelphia Eagles next week and will face No. 2 pick Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders later in the preseason, so Maye and Milton could get some more playing time in those matchups.
It’s hard to tell much from a few snaps, but fans seem very excited for Maye and Milton. After a disappointing tenure from Mac Jones, New England is hoping to find a franchise quarterback who can turn things around. Whether Maye or Milton will be the one to do that is yet to be determined, but the two took a step closer to that goal on Thursday.
