Drake Maye is still finding his footing in the NFL, but he’s already managed to impress New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick. During the 2024 NFL Draft, the Patriots selected Maye with the third overall pick, hoping he could become the franchise’s next standout quarterback. This pick came after the Chicago Bears chose Caleb Williams and the Washington Commanders picked Jayden Daniels.
Unlike Williams and Daniels, who began the season as starters, Maye initially backed up Jacoby Brissett, awaiting his opportunity.
Now the Patriots’ starter, Maye has shown promise, including a last-second touchdown pass to Rhamondre Stevenson against the Tennessee Titans.
Though he’s bound to experience ups and downs, he led New England to a 19-3 victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 10.
Belichick, well-versed in New England’s standard for quarterback play, shared his thoughts on Maye’s performance during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
He praised Maye’s mobility and play-action skills, noting that Stevenson’s effective running game helps create opportunities in the passing attack.
Despite Maye’s promise, New England’s offense still faces challenges, and Belichick has expressed disappointment with Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo for labeling the team’s players as “soft.” With a 3-7 record, the Patriots are at the bottom of the AFC East and unlikely to reach the playoffs, shifting their focus to developing Maye for 2025.
To support Maye’s growth, New England needs to add offensive weapons.
So far, only Hunter Henry has surpassed 400 receiving yards this season, and experts suggest the Patriots should consider drafting a wide receiver in 2025 to give Maye a reliable target. Analyst Field Yates has also recommended Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. as a potential draft addition.
Ranking last in the NFL for offensive yards per game, the Patriots have work to do in both the draft and free agency to build a strong team around Maye heading into 2025.
