New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye faced an uphill battle in training camp this summer if he wanted to displace Jacoby Brissett as the Patriots’ starting quarterback. With just a few weeks left until Week 1, it looks like Maye won’t see the field for a while.
That may have always been the plan in New England. Maye, the third pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was seen as a bit of a projection at quarterback this offseason. Several teams had him ranked as the third-best quarterback in the NFL Draft, believing he could benefit from a Jordan Love-like development plan.
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New England won’t go that far with the former ACC Player of the Year. Although much was said about his struggles in training camp, Maye also stands out in some areas. The Patriots’ coaching staff sees signs of development. However, that doesn’t mean Maye will be on the field immediately or at all in the near future during the regular season.
Charles Robinson, senior NFL reporter for Yahoo Sports, wrote from Patriots training camp that he would not be surprised if Brissett spent the “vast majority” of the season as the Patriots’ starting quarterback.
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Examining the New England Patriots’ Starting QB Plan
Part of New England’s motivation may come from the past. No wide receiver really stood out in training camp, adding to concerns about offensive weapons around the quarterback. After trading Brandon Aiyuk, the Patriots are forced to rely on rookie Ja’Lynn Polk as the best receiver threat in their offense.
The offensive line is just as big a problem, but not as much when a veteran quarterback is at quarterback. Brissett has experience in these situations and knows how to stay in tune with an offense and maintain his composure and decision-making ability under pressure. That’s what the Patriots offense needs to open the season, so there’s no reason why Brissett shouldn’t start.
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At some point in 2024, however, the calculus will change. The Patriots coaching staff will shift its focus to next season and prioritize Maye’s development by giving him the live game reps he needs to improve. That might make New England’s offense worse if he takes over as the Patriots’ starting quarterback, but it will be a long-term win for the team and Maye’s development.
