Since New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo switched to former UNC standout Drake Maye as his starting quarterback, one of the NFL’s worst offensive units now suddenly has life.
Maye has a touchdown pass in each of his five starts, including a career-high three in his first start against the Houston Texans. Taking Maye’s stats a step further, Maye has multiple touchdown passes in three of those starts.
Maye is fresh off his highest passing yardage total, with 282 in a 28-22 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Nov. 14. He completed 29-of-39 passes, tossed two touchdowns and ran for 27 yards.
For Maye’s latest outing, he was tabbed one of NFL Analyst/former Good Morning Football host Peter Schrager’s Top 5 Week 11 rookies.
Maye, ranked third amongst Schrager’s rookies, found himself on the list with Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell (second), Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey, Seattle Seahawks linebacker Tyrice Knight and Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix.
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After New England suffered below-average quarterback play from initial starter Jacoby Brissett, Mayo decided the team needed a spark. That’s why he went to Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, whom the Patriots invested heavily in to be their franchise guy.
Overall through seven appearances, Maye has 1,236 passing yards, nine touchdowns and six interceptions. Maye is also showcasing his speed for the Patriots, collecting 260 rushing yards and a rushing touchdowns, on 28 carries.
What makes Maye’s rookie year even more impressive is that he’s playing behind a struggling offensive line. Maye also lacks a true number one wide receiver, like he had at North Carolina, with the likes of Josh Downs and Devontez Walker.
I was hopeful Maye would be the latest Tar Heel to thrive in the NFL, but I didn’t think it’d be this early in his rookie season. I’m excited to watch how Maye’s career pans out.
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