Drake Maye had an MRI on his knee yesterday, leading to concerns from Patriots fans about the rookie quarterback’s health. However, Offensive Coordinator Alex Van Pelt ended those concerns with his press conference on Thursday, saying he is “Not concerned. Looked good to me yesterday.”
Maye was a full participant in practice on Wednesday, which caused some confusion because of the apparent MRI.
Patriots OC Van Pelt
It was reported by Ben Volin Wednesday night that Maye went in for an MRI on his knee, which normally isn’t a good sign with the game on Sunday. There was concern early on that Maye could have been injured in the game or practice, leading to him missing some time. But with Van Pelt’s comments, Maye should be ready to go this Sunday against the Jaguars.
If Maye would be unable to go because of his knee, Jacoby Brissett would once again start for the Patriots. Brissett struggled to say the least this season. The offense struggled to move the ball and when Maye took over, the offense was able to push the ball downfield, leading to career highs and first career touchdowns for receivers Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte.
Progression From Maye
Van Pelt also commented on Drake Maye’s progress from the start of the season. He said Maye has been “very different” now than he was at the beginning of the year. After the Mac Jones saga with New England, this is a very promising sign as there is hope that Maye can be what they wanted Jones to be, the next one after Brady.
Fans saw a glimpse of what Maye could be in his debut, a QB with a strong arm, good mobility, and command of the offense. Everyone around the team is raving about his ability, with players and media alike talking about how much confidence they have in him. The Patriots seem to have their man. The thought of him getting hurt right after his first start was the worst case scenario for the Patriots, but the concern is now gone, and now the focus is squarely on his development.
Looking Ahead for Maye and the Patriots
Moving forward now, the Patriots take on the Jacksonville Jaguars in London on Sunday. This is a massive opportunity for Maye to show what he has on national television against a struggling opponent. After last week and impressing against a very good Texans defense, this could be a breakout week for Maye and the Patriots offense. The Jags defense is pretty average, but really struggled last week against another rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. He threw for four touchdowns against them, and with the Jaguars as a whole in a bad spot with a 1-5 record and a coach on the hot seat, Maye and the Pats could pounce at the opportunity.
With the MRI scare now over, Patriots fans will be hoping that they never have to worry about something like this for a while. A quarterback’s rookie year is the most important year in their career. The 2023 Draft Class is a prime example for this, CJ Stroud thrived in his rookie year and was able to ascend into elite territory for QBs. Meanwhile Bryce Young struggled mightily and he is now a backup for one of the worst teams in the league. It really can make-or-break a career, so any type of injury news is a nightmare scenario for the Patriots.
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