Since taking over as the Patriots’ starting quarterback in Week 6 Drake Maye has earned praise locally and nationally. Rob Gronkowski, Mark Sanchez, Kurt Warner and Julian Edelman have given the rookie quarterback his flowers, as has longtime New England rival Rex Ryan, who called Maye a “stud.”
Despite all the positive praise coming from the outside, Maye tries not to read too much into it — though he does appreciate hearing it.
“I think it’s especially some of the media guys, or you said Gronk, said something, next time I see Gronk — or hopefully meet him sometime — just thank him and appreciate it,” Maye said Monday during his weekly interview with WEEI. “I think it’s more of a don’t get too high when you feel like you’re playing well, and don’t get too low when things aren’t going your way. So it’s kind of a tough battle, because I do feel like I’m making some plays and we’re moving the ball offensively.
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“I don’t think it’s turned into wins, so I think we need to figure that part out. But at the same time, I think we got those guys and in that room, a lot different guys making plays, and I think we’re just a few plays away,” he continued. “And it’s a bummer really how the end of the game has ended up because I feel like with a chance with the ball in my hands, that’s what, that’s what I want. I want the ball to be in my hands with the chance to win it.”
Maye has made rookie mistakes — which is to be expected — but with each start he’s flashed his potential and has showcased his ability to develop quickly. He also holds himself accountable and doesn’t try to place blame on others.
The rookie has been doing and saying all of the right things since being drafted third overall by the Patriots in the 2024 draft. And it’s clear he has the respect of his teammates and those around the league. Maye even impressed longtime Patriots rival Rex Ryan.
In a trying season for the Patriots, Maye has provided a boost to the offense and has shown he can be the future at the quarterback position.