Throughout training camp and the preseason, New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye has pushed closer to swiping the QB1 gig from Jacoby Brissett.
Maye played well in last Thursday’s preseason outing against Philadelphia, showing good pocket presence, command of the offense and flashing his big arm. His play outpaced the stats.
Head coach Jerod Mayo said on Wednesday he’s not surprised that Maye has steadily improved during camp, but the pecking order remains the same for now.
“You come into camp, and you want to have an idea of how it’s going. It’s still a competition, and Jacoby is still QB1,” the first-year coach said. “It’s a competition amongst all the guys on the field, including the quarterback spot.”
The Patriots entered camp with Brissett clearly in the catbird seat for the Week 1 gig, but Maye showing the ability to lead the offense despite less-than-ideal surroundings has pushed the conversation.
Mayo said it’s clear that Maye’s confidence is growing and he could lead the team now if needed.
“100 percent I think he’s ready to run a huddle,” Mayo said.
Mayo noted that “all the quarterbacks are playing” in the preseason finale against the Washington Commanders, which provides each one last opportunity to state his case. The coach said he hopes to decide on the Week 1 starter early next week -- whether he makes an announcement is another matter.
“I would say by Monday night we should know who the quarterback is,” he said. “Sunday night game, it’s always hard to crank through the film. Especially on the road. But I think Monday-Tuesday we’ll probably know who it is. Now, that doesn’t mean I’ll tell you who it is.”
Maye has made his talent clear during preseason action. He should see the field at some point in 2024. The decision Mayo has to make in the next week is whether that happens from the jump-off point or if the Patriots are more comfortable riding Brissett to start the season while the rookie learns from the sideline.