Courtesy of JEFF SINER, Charlotte Observer

The Patriots were once again well represented at Thursday’s pro day at North Carolina. Eliot Wolf, Jerod Mayo, Alex Van Pelt, Matt Groh, Pat Stewart, Alonzo Highsmith, TC McCartney, Ben McAdoo and Matt Evans were all on hand to watch quarterback Drake Maye throw. 

Maye did not disappoint as he put on a show displaying his signature arm strength. Maye also looked like he improved in the areas he struggled in during the season. Specifically his footwork. 

Maye threw a diverse script that highlighted his arm talent in all three levels and his improved pocket skills which have been questioned this off-season.

Here is what I saw from Maye’s pro day. 

Screens/Perimeter Throws: Maye threw the ball well on the outside. He has a quick release and can change his arm angle if necessary. He did miss a couple of slant throws that he obviously needs to make but overall, I thought he looked smooth and rhythmic getting the ball out quick. 

Middle of the Field Throws: Maye’s arm talent really pops in the middle of the field. He shows good touch, timing and anticipation. He can add and subtract on his throws based on the route. He drives the dig ball in there but shows good touch and ball placement on posts and crossers. His accuracy doesn’t change when he’s forced to alter his arm angle and throw off platform. 

Outside Throws: Drove the ball into small areas and showed he can place it away from a potential defender. Maye made each outside throw with ease and proved that he has the biggest arm in this draft class other than Joe Milton. He threw receiver breaks on time and with accuracy. 

Pocket/Footwork: The one area where Maye needs to improve. He showed improved footwork in the pocket and coming off fakes in play-action. We have to keep it real however. He wasn’t dealing with a pass rush so that makes it easier but he stayed within the pocket, adjusted to make his throws and did not drift to his left which something you see a lot on film when he is pressured. 

Presence/Demeanor: Maye has the demeanor to be the guy. Reminds me of Justin Herbert in that regard. He did a good job of working with his receivers and quarterback coach, directing his teammates and playing within the script so that he could maximize his throws. 

If there were any doubts regarding Maye, they have been put to bed after yesterday’s performance. He is locked as a top three pick whether the Commanders or Patriots take him or someone trades up for him. 

The size and arm talent are elite and he has certain attributes which will make him appealing to teams, especially his leadership qualities.

If Maye were to get past the Patriots at third overall, it would be an upset.