Following a peculiar offseason in New England, Drake Maye doesn’t quite resemble the franchise quarterback who led the Patriots to the Super Bowl last year.
In a game against the Steelers, Maye managed to throw for 208 yards but also threw an interception, contributing to a 20-3 win that was marked by a particularly poor performance from Aaron Rodgers.
When asked about his concerns regarding Maye’s performance this season, head coach Mike Vrabel sharply replied, “You’re not going to ruin my Sunday.” He seemed eager to focus on winning and said he’d address the issue at a later time.
Still, the question of Maye’s form seems to be on everyone’s mind, despite Vrabel’s avoidance. Podcaster Bill Simmons, for instance, didn’t hold back, stating, “Drake Maye has been a mess. He just has.”
At the end of last season, Maye struggled, with many attributing it to injury and not being fully fit. But this year’s situation feels quite different.
Maye has consistently underthrown deep passes, including a significant opportunity in Week 1 that could have resulted in a touchdown against the Seahawks.
Compounding the issue, A.J. Brown’s indefinite absence due to an ankle injury hasn’t helped, and it’s been two weeks of disappointing play from the Patriots’ quarterback.
Simmons speculated that the team’s struggles could be linked to Vrabel’s off-field distractions. He remarked on Vrabel not appearing as sharp, noting some unusual clock management decisions and referencing Vrabel’s recent personal controversies.
Vrabel had to miss the final day of the NFL Draft for emergency marriage counseling after Page Six published scandalous photos showing him with NFL reporter Dianna Russini.
Regardless of the causes, the Patriots clearly have a lot to address. Their offensive line took a hit when guard Mike Onwenu suffered a broken ankle and is now out indefinitely.
In Sunday’s game, the Steelers’ defensive line pressured Maye extensively, hitting him seven times and registering three sacks.
Moreover, Vrabel’s playmaker utilization has raised eyebrows; players like Treyveon Henderson and Kyle Williams remain on the bench, despite Rhamondre Stevenson fumbling yet again, while the team desperately needs a deep threat with Brown unavailable.
If the Patriots don’t improve soon, they might find themselves facing a rough start with a possible 1-3 record. Up next, New England will have to contend with the Jaguars, followed by a matchup against the Bills in Week 4.
