Eliot Wolf, the new executive of player personnel for the New England Patriots, previously dismissed the idea that the team couldn’t support a rookie quarterback. Speaking in April, before the Patriots selected Drake Maye third overall, Wolf expressed confidence in their ability to provide the necessary support, citing their “NFL receivers” and “NFL offensive linemen” as key components. However, this confidence has proven to be misplaced.
In Maye’s four starts so far, he has received minimal assistance from the players around him. In a recent game against the Tennessee Titans, where the Patriots lost 20-17 in overtime, Maye was thrust into a challenging position. He completed 29 of 41 passes for 206 yards and scrambled for 95 yards, accounting for nearly all of the team’s offensive production. Despite only having one week of recovery from a concussion, Maye displayed remarkable resilience, even throwing a game-tying touchdown in the final moments of regulation. Unfortunately, his efforts culminated in a game-ending interception, sealing the team’s fate.
The performance of the Patriots’ receiving corps was lackluster, with the wide receivers combining for just 13 receptions and 94 yards. Veteran tight end Hunter Henry led the team with seven catches for 56 yards, highlighting a concerning trend where the receiver group has failed to reach 100 yards in two of their last three games. The running backs’ performance was equally dismal, contributing only 15 yards on 12 carries—an astonishingly low figure. Furthermore, the running backs managed just 19 yards after contact, underscoring the offensive line’s struggle in the running game. On top of that, the offensive line allowed Maye to face 17 pressures, which included 13 hurries and two sacks, according to Pro Football Focus. Currently, the Patriots rank 26th in rushing yards this season, which is particularly detrimental for a rookie quarterback trying to establish himself.
The Patriots have opportunities to enhance Maye’s supporting cast, especially with the upcoming NFL trade deadline. There’s a compelling argument for the team to make moves to improve their roster, despite holding a two-win record. With substantial financial resources and the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Patriots have the means to turn things around. However, it’s clear that they have not adequately prepared their rookie quarterback for success thus far.
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