Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, when asked about the team's QB competition, Patriots HC Jerod Mayo commented that Jacoby Brissett "is the starting QB at this point in time".
What They're Saying
Mayo: "It’s about competition and we will see how it plays out, but coming out of the spring it’s clear Jacoby is the most pro ready.”
When asked if Maye could win the job, Mayo said: “If he goes out there and lights it up, it absolutely could happen.”
2024 Fantasy Football Impact
Mayo's words echo the buzz around the Patriots QB competition: Brissett looks like the starter and rookie Drake Maye needs to light things up to win the job to start the season.
Despite Brissett starting the year, the leash is likely to be short if the Patriots offense struggles. Pressure will mount quickly from the fans and media to see the third overall pick.
We currently project Brissett to start two games and Maye to start the rest of the season.
Dynasty Impact
The only potential benefit to Maye sitting is an improvement to his long-term outlook as a player.
If the coaching staff sees Maye as a more raw work in progress, then allowing him to learn from Brissett may be the right move for the franchise.
For dynasty managers with Maye on their team, it may be worth the wait if it allows him to turn into a long-term fantasy QB1.
Other Winners & Losers
Brissett being the starter limits the ceiling of the Patriots' offense. As a journeyman QB, Brissett is unlikely to pilot a high-scoring offense for the Patriots at any point this season.
Maye starting sooner rather than later would likely benefit the Patriots weapons like Demario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Rhamondre Stevenson. Tempering early expectations for the entire Patriots offense is wise.