Jerod Mayo calls Drake Maye the ‘second-best quarterback on Patriots roster’ despite drafting him third overall

While suggesting Drake Maye's name for the starting position in Week 1, Jerod Mayo clarified that he still considers him No. 2 quarterback.

Jerod Mayo calls Drake Maye the ‘second-best quarterback on Patriots roster’ despite drafting him third overall

Jerod Mayo and Drake Maye (Via Imago/Yardbarker)

When the New England Patriots drafted Drake Maye using their No. 3 overall pick, it was widely considered that he would start in Week 1 of the coming season. However, when the time came for head coach Jerod Mayo to name the starter, he chose Jacoby Brissett ahead of the rookie. 

The Patriots never planned to start the season with a rookie as they wanted him to sit back and learn the league rhythm before taking on the most crucial position on the roster. But with Brissett benched due to his shoulder injury, head coach Mayo put Maye’s name forward as the starter.

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Having said that, head coach Mayo clarified in the press conferences that he still views the rookie quarterback as No. 2, and as soon as Brissett returns, he will be given his rightful position. Maye, as well, has shown progress in the preseason finale by 13-for-20 and 126 yards, including an 88-yard drive for a touchdown–which made Mayo believe the rookie can handle the role in the absence of Brissett.

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He’s our second-best quarterback on our roster right now.
Jerod Mayo said

Although Mayo did suggest the rookie’s name for the starting role, he hasn’t made a decision yet. Following Saturday’s game, he said the announcement will be made on Monday, but nothing has been said yet.

Jacoby Brissett marked questionable after tough hit in preseason finale

During the preseason finale against the Washington Commanders, quarterback Brissett—whom Mayo named the started previously—endured a heavy hit on a sack of the first drive. After playing a few more plays, he was finally taken off the field and was later marked questionable.

Head coach Mayo told the reporters that he would have made Brissett return if it was a regular season game. But since it was preseason, he didn’t want to risk any major injuries before the regular season even began. He assured that the quarterback hasn’t suffered a very serious injury and is feeling better.

Jacoby Brissett
Jacoby Brissett (Via NESN)

The only good thing about Brissett leaving the field was that Maye got more reps to display his prowess which had originally gotten him drafted in the first round, that too as the third overall. And he indeed showcased his arm strength, impressive athleticism, and the bonus of pocket presence like an experienced veteran.

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