Drake Maye has made a strong case to become the New England Patriots’ starting quarterback after an impressive performance on Sunday night.
With Jacoby Brissett sidelined due to a shoulder injury on the game’s opening drive, Maye stepped in and led the Patriots on a scoring drive. The No. 3 overall pick showcased his skills, notably converting a 3rd-and-14 with a 17-yard scramble. He completed five of six passes during the drive, finishing with an 18-yard touchdown pass to Kevin Harris.
Maye ended the game with a solid 13-for-20 for 126 yards and one touchdown. His highlight was a stunning 48-yard touchdown pass to K.J. Osborn that was unfortunately nullified by a penalty.
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On Monday, Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo remarked that Maye has outperformed Brissett thus far in preseason, though other factors will influence the final decision on the starter. “This is a competitive situation, and at this moment, Drake has shown better performance,” Mayo stated on WEEI’s ‘The Greg Hill Show.’ However, he noted that the selection will consider the full body of work from the spring and training camp.
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Brissett entered camp as the likely starter, but Maye’s strong showing has turned this into a real competition. Brissett has started every preseason game, but the team has yet to name a definitive starter, with a decision expected soon.
Some very impressive plays by Drake Maye on that drive.
– 17-yard scramble on third-and-14
– Cross-body completion to Polk for 29 yards
– 16-yard completion to Douglas on third-and-8 pic.twitter.com/UHSLSAZmvV— Zack Cox (@zm_cox) August 26, 2024
“It’s all about practice performance and game execution – Drake has certainly outshined,” Mayo continued, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “But we need to consider all relevant factors, including the extensive experience Brissett brings to the table.”
Mayo expressed confidence in the competitive spirit between the two quarterbacks, hoping to announce a starter soon and gear up for the upcoming season.
If Maye secures the starting role, he would join an elite group of rookie quarterbacks from this draft class, alongside Chicago’s Caleb Williams, Washington’s Jayden Daniels, and Denver’s Bo Nix, all already named starters.
The Patriots kick off their season on September 8 against the Cincinnati Bengals.
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