New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye took a major leap on Monday during the team’s first mandatory minicamp practice. Maye’s effort came after weeks of struggle to begin OTAs this offseason as he dipped his toes into the NFL game.
The New England Patriots aren’t rushing the No. 3 pick
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As previously discussed on GH, Maye started OTAs significantly behind QB1 Jacoby Brissett. Maye was third on the depth chart until last week when he assumed QB2 reps from Bailey Zappe. The Patriots stressed patience for Maye following his first few weeks after practices. Maye said the Patriots elite defense was a major factor as to why he threw two interceptions during practice last week:
“Our defense does a great job, so we’re getting great work out here [as an offense],” Maye said. “A lot of different pieces. They can do a lot of different things. They do a good job disguising. They do a good job bringing different blitzes. I think that’s what makes them special.”
Maye said he understood that he needs to take advantage of every rep the team gives him this offseason as he competes his way up the depth chart. Eventually, the Patriots expect the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft to become their starter. They can’t give him that responsibility if he’s consistently throwing more interceptions than touchdowns in practice.
Drake Maye had his best practice on Monday
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Maye’s performance on Monday flipped the script from what reporters had witnessed in recent weeks. According to Doug Kyed with the Boston Herald, Maye had his best practice as a Patriot. His performance, albeit as the QB2, was better than Brissett:
“Best practice so far for Patriots rookie QB Drake Maye. I had him 18/23 with touchdowns to Jaheim Bell, Kayshon Boutte and La’Michael Pettway. Jacoby Brissett was 12/23. Bailey Zappe threw an interception to Kyle Dugger and was 1/4. Joe Milton III was 3-6 in limited action.”
Jacoby Brissett praised Maye after practice
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Brissett talked to reporters after practice. In an interview posted by Mike Reiss of ESPN, Brissett said Maye had impressed him with his progress in calling plays, improving his footwork, and throwing the football.
“Every day, he’s gotten better,” Brissett said. “The good thing about it is it’s not, ‘Oh, I got it right now, and I’m not thinking about it.’ He’s just constantly trying to find ways to get better. He made some nice throws out there, and you’re seeing his progression come alive.”
Brissett will still have the starting job for the next two days of minicamp. But Maye will try to use the next couple of days to close the gap before training camp.
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