When former NFL MVP quarterback Robert Griffin III took to X to praise Drake Maye’s postseason run, he wasn’t exaggerating.
Griffin highlighted something few people fully appreciate: Maye‘s path to the Super Bowl this year was historically difficult.
According to Griffin, Maye became the first quarterback in NFL history to defeat three topfive defenses en route to the league’s biggest game. That feat alone is enough to command respect, and the numbers back it up.
Maye‘s playoff journey began in the Wild Card Round against the Los Angeles Chargers, who entered the postseason with the fifth-ranked defense in the NFL.
While Maye himself admitted that his performance wasn’t flawless, he displayed remarkable poise and decision-making, leading the Patriots to a 16-3 victory. His ability to manage the game under pressure, read defenses, and avoid costly mistakes laid the foundation for what was to come.
Next came the Divisional Round against the Houston Texans, the team boasting the #1 defense in the league. Maye stepped up in a major way, throwing three touchdown passes and orchestrating several critical drives. The Patriots’ 28-16 win was a testament to his growing confidence and his ability to adapt to elite competition.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is that Maye is just in his second NFL season, yet he navigated a defense of this caliber with composure.
Respect beyond the stats
The AFC Championship Game in Denver presented yet another monumental challenge. Facing the #2 Broncos defense, Maye‘s passing numbers were modest, but his leadership and clutch decision-making helped New England secure a 10-7 victory, punching their ticket to Super Bowl LX.
It’s rare for a young quarterback to handle three consecutive top-tier defenses and succeed in every matchup, making Maye‘s accomplishment historic.
Beyond the wins, Maye‘s season statistics highlight why he has garnered widespread acclaim. He finished the year with 4,394 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions, earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America’s AllAFC team.
More than numbers, Maye has impressed veterans and fans alike with his humility and team-first approach. Even former Patriots legend Tom Brady praised Maye‘s mental toughness and leadership qualities, traits that are difficult to quantify but crucial in high-pressure games.
Whether critics focus on potential mistakes or question his experience, Maye has silenced skeptics by performing when it mattered most. Defeating three elite defenses in consecutive playoff rounds is unprecedented, and it highlights both his skill and maturity as a young quarterback.
As Griffin emphatically stated on X, it’s time to “put some respect” on Drake Maye’s name.
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