The Athletic’s Chad Graff believes there’s only a 35% chance of Pats QB Drake Maye starting Week 1. Graff notes that “most” of the rookie’s offseason reps came with the third-string offense – and none with the starters.
Graff makes clear that he’s not “worried” about Maye’s status behind veteran starter Jacoby Brissett.
Here’s more:
“The Patriots are content letting Maye start the season on the bench as long as Brissett plays well in training camp. Maye was the second-youngest quarterback drafted and was only the starting quarterback at North Carolina for two years. So some extra time learning the NFL game may not be the worst thing for him before he likely takes over at some point around midseason.”
Indeed – Maye turns just 22 in August.
Where he shined this offseason, according to the reporter, was with his combo of arm strength and athleticism.
“I was especially impressed with his athleticism,” Graff remarked. “It was just spring practices, and of course things can change once hitting is allowed. But he has been a willing and effective scrambler. He also doesn’t leave the pocket just to run — he can extend the play and make nice throws on the move.”
You can consider Maye late in superflex drafts. In most setups, however, he’s well off the radar.
While New England added pass catching talent, it’s still an unproven group. And note: Veteran WR Kendrick Bourne is returning from a 2023 ACL tear.
The Pats also face some serious question marks along the O-line.
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