Jerod Mayo shows ‘mega’ confidence in Drake Maye after snubbing him initially over Jacoby Brissett
Drake Maye, drafted by the New England Patriots third overall in the NFL Draft 2024, will make debut career start against Houston Texans.
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Drake Maye, Jerod Mayo, Jacoby Brissett (images via Boston.com/X/AP)
The New England Patriots are one of the worst-performing teams in the league after five weeks. They are dead last in the AFC East after four consecutive losses after an upset win over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1.
After some pretty harsh weeks, the New England Patriots HC Jerod Mayo has decided to bench Jacoby Brissett. The Patriots are looking to jumpstart their future by starting Drake Maye in Week 6 against the Houston Texans. Maye made one prior appearance, stepping in at the end of a Week 3 loss to the New York Jets. He completed 4 of 8 passes for 22 yards and rushed for 12 yards in the short span.
Although veteran Jacoby Brissett was originally set to lead the team through the early part of the season, things have changed. With Brissett struggling behind a shaky offensive line and a poor start, the team has decided to make the switch to Maye sooner than expected.
Mayo confirmed the young quarterback’s appointment during a press conference. He expressed some disappointment at not being able to inform the entire team first. However, he added that he believes Maye’s growth since being drafted third overall in April makes him the right choice.
Going forward, I think Drake gives us the best chance to win now and going forward. He’s been getting better every single week, as I’ve said before. At the end of training camp, he was actually trending at a very high rate and that has continued through the early part of the season.
Jerod Mayo said
Mayo believes that Maye’s “athleticism will definitely open up more plays” for the offense compared to Brissett. CJ Stroud, the Texans QB had selected Maye as his favourite quarterback from the current draft class. He praised Brissett as a “warrior,” hoping the veteran will maintain his professionalism in his new role.
He added that the decision to make the change was solely his decision. Nevertheless, he added that the ownership, the coaching staff, and the executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf were all supportive of the move.
Patriots expect a ready Drake Maye to change things up
Drake Maye has demonstrated since the end of training camp his capability to take the field and hold his own. According to Mayo, Maye outperformed Brissett at the end of training camp. He has also shown some impressive performances during practices, receiving 30% of the starting reps.
A source within the team noted that Maye’s ability to extend plays with his legs is a key reason the Patriots are diverting attention to him. The Patriots have been struggling with their non-consistent offensive line. Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt is now expected to adjust the offensive scheme to better utilize Maye’s strengths.
The Patriots are predicted to make more shot-gun as well as moving the pocket moves to align with Maye’s skillset. There have been instances of him faltering under pressure, but sources reported that Van Pelt is confident in the young rookie. Maye will be put to test this week against a near-perfect Houston Texans.
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Mohammed Bazim
(425 Articles Published)