The New England Patriots drafted quarterback Drake Maye with the third-overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The pick drew a close to the failed Mac Jones era and gave way to a future filled with hope. Maye was billed as a young quarterback who possessed all of the tools to succeed at the next level.
His rookie season didn’t come without the usual blips and struggles, but the former Tar Heel impressed under center, even as the Patriots struggled to a 4-13 record. Maye completed 66.6% of his passes for 2276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 13 games while adding 421 rushing yards and a pair of scores on the ground.
According to Bleacher Report’s Moe Molton, Maye is the Patriots' most promising building block heading into 2025, something that shouldn’t come as a surprise. In an article where Molton picked every team’s most promising building block, it was Maye who was picked as the Patriots' choice.
“Last season, Maye showed flashes despite a weak supporting cast.” Molton wrote, before later adding, “In 2025, Maye should be able to put his arm talent and improvisational skills on full display.
Sophomore slumps are common in the NFL, but the work that Maye has put in during the offseason, as well as what the Patriots have done to improve the roster, means that an improvement is on the cards. And having a young quarterback on the verge of taking a leap is a tantalizing prospect.
“This offseason, the Patriots bolstered their receiver unit with Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins and rookie third-rounder Kyle Williams, and added running back TreVeyon Henderson, an explosive three-down playmaker.” Molton went on to say, “Maye will benefit from those additions and a new offensive coordinator.”
The Patriots went back to the well this offseason, bringing back former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to take over playcalling duties for the team. McDaniels had previously been the team’s coordinator from 2012 to 2021 before departing for the Las Vegas Raiders head coaching role.
Having an experienced play-caller in the building, and one who has helped develop one of the most consistent offenses in the NFL during his stints with the Patriots, is a bonus for Maye. McDaniels will hopefully help Maye take the next step, as the Patriots quarterback is seen as the future of the franchise.
