Drake Maye excited to ‘get the rock’ to Stefon Diggs in Patriots’ opener

FOXBOROUGH – Drake Maye got a glimpse of what it’ll be like playing with Stefon Diggs.

This offseason, the Patriots quarterback went to his new receiver early and often in training camp. Maye started many full-team drills by connecting with Diggs on early downs. It was clear at that point that the second-year player was trying to build a rapport with the Pro Bowler.

Over the last week, however, Maye has noticed a difference in Diggs. With the Patriots’ regular-season opener approaching, the team’s most accomplished receiver has been elevating his game.

“It’s been awesome to bond with such a high-level player,” Maye said. “It continues to show as the game week and game day comes closer and closer. He’s elevating his game, elevating his practice style. I’m looking forward to getting out there with him on Sunday. I think we’ll see a good energy from Stef. I’m looking forward to getting him the rock and letting him do his thing.”

Coming off a season-ending knee injury, Diggs has had an impressive recovery. The 31-year-old started training camp right away and said on Wednesday that he doesn’t expect to be on a pitch count come Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Diggs also explained that in training camp, Mike Vrabel and the training staff had him practicing in a limited fashion since he was coming back from the knee injury. As the team’s first game approaches, Diggs’ workload in practice has ramped up.

The veteran receiver comes to the Patriots hoping to make an impact on the offense and help Maye. As the second-year quarterback looks to elevate his game, Diggs says he’s been impressed with Maye this offseason.

“It’s fun,” Diggs said. “He’s a young quarterback. He has a lot of confidence. He has a strong arm. He plays with that confidence. (We’re) at that time in camp where everyone is trying to peak at the right time. Seeing a lot of good things.”