New England Patriots Give Rookie Drake Maye Playing Time in Blowout Loss
ICARO Media Group
Amidst a definitive loss to the New York Jets, the New England Patriots provided rookie quarterback Drake Maye with an opportunity to take the field late in the fourth quarter. Head coach Jerod Mayo made a strategic move by substituting veteran starter Jacoby Brissett with the first-round rookie as the game was slipping away. While not a decisive changing of the guard, this quarterback switch raised questions about the future of the team's lineup.
Following the game, Coach Mayo affirmed that Brissett remains the starting quarterback as the Patriots gear up to face the San Francisco 49ers in Week 4. Despite the disappointing performance, with Brissett completing 12 passes for 98 yards and facing significant pressure from the Jets' defense, Mayo stood by his quarterback, emphasizing the toughness and resolve displayed under challenging circumstances.
The rookie Maye, drafted third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, showcased his potential during his brief appearance on the field. With limited opportunities, Maye completed four passes for 22 yards but was sacked twice. Coach Mayo commended Maye's athleticism and ability to throw, recognizing the tough circumstances of entering the game late and praising his efforts to lead the offense in a difficult situation.
Mayo disclosed that Maye has been receiving about 30% of first-team reps in practice, with Brissett taking the remaining 70% as the starter. Despite speculations regarding a potential shift in the quarterback position, Coach Mayo reiterated that Brissett is still the starter and emphasized the team's commitment to supporting him as they work towards improvement. The loss to the Jets brings the Patriots to a 1-2 record for the season, following a victory over the Cincinnati Bengals and an overtime defeat against the Seattle Seahawks.