Last season marked a new era at the quarterback position for the New England Patriots, after Mac Jones’ project-who had shown a promising start-ended up failing. So in the 2024 draft, the Pats had no choice but to select Drake Maye from North Carolina in the first round, a player who showed very encouraging skills in the NCAA.
Maye started as Jacoby Brissett’s backup but eventually earned the starting role, playing in 13 games where he showed very promising abilities. By the end of the season, he had thrown for 2,276 yards, 15 passing touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, which has now got Pats fans excited.
One of the major priorities for the Patriots is protecting Drake Maye, who suffered several hits-on the knee and especially the head, such as in Week 8 against the New York Jets, when he suffered a concussion from a blow to the back of his head. This is undoubtedly something the Pats need to pay attention to.
The Patriots expect significant growth from Drake Maye in his second year
Of the 13 games he played last season, Maye started 12 and showed great flashes of talent, especially with his arm strength and mobility. However, as mentioned, he endured heavy hits, which the New England Patriots must avoid in the 2025 season.
Inside the Patriots organization, there is a belief that Drake Maye will make a big leap in quality, given the strong confidence in Mike Vrabel as Head Coach and Josh McDaniels as the new offensive coordinator. Jeff Howe of The Athletic wrote:
“There is a strong internal belief that quarterback Drake Maye will take another step forward, as the 2024 first-round pick had an impressive first offseason with coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels,” wrote Howe.
Drake Maye has been working hard this preseason with Vrabel and McDaniels, trying to find the formula for the offense they will present in the 2025 season, which kicks off with a home game against the Las Vegas Raiders next Sunday.
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