“I would also say he’s doing a lot of reps during practice. And then when Eagles week comes around, that’s honestly a big week for everybody to practice against the Eagles.
“We’ll see how the reps break down in the game, but I expect Drake to get more reps than he did in the first game.”
Maye worked behind the line of scrimmage and completed two of three passes for a total of 19 yards, including a 13-yard pass to running back Antonio Gibson that resulted in a first down.
Maye, who was selected third in the draft, didn’t seem bothered by playing only six snaps.
“I’ve been doing a lot of practice in training,” he said after the game. “Practice is important and you have to make sure that reflects in the game. I’m trying to take advantage of all the practice I get and make the most of it. I think the rest of the preseason I’ll be out there more, so I’m looking forward to that.”
Maye played as a backup to veteran Jacoby Brissett, who also played just a single series and finished 0 for 3. As Mayo promised earlier in the week, all four quarterbacks played against the Panthers. Bailey Zappe played most of the second and third quarters, while rookie sixth-round pick Joe Milton took over late in the third quarter and finished the game.
“Each of these quarterbacks has an individual development plan that I’ve gone through with (offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt) and the rest of the team,” Mayo said, “and we’re sticking to that plan until it’s time for a change.”
One thing that could give Maye more playing time would be a more stable offensive line. There have been injuries there and there is uncertainty surrounding the evaluation of rookies.
Mayo noted earlier this summer that after the second warm-up game, a fairly accurate picture of the starting group should emerge.
In the meantime, they continue to make personnel changes in the hope of finding the right combination.
“The offensive line is still a work in progress,” Mayo said. “I’ve said it since day one – we’re going to play with the best five, no matter what that combination looks like. We’re always trying to get better.”
“We’re bringing some linemen in for practice today. We’re always trying to get better and improve that front. When it comes to winning football games, it all starts with the offensive and defensive line.”
Christopher Price can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him @cpriceglobe.
