Patriots quarterback Drake Maye spoke to the media on Monday, after the first day of mandatory minicamp, expressing that he is “starting to really find a stride” within Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels’ system. This sentiment comes as the Patriots wrapped up their voluntary OTAs and transitioned into the mandatory portion of their offseason program.
Maye’s performance on Monday was a notable topic of discussion. The second-year signal-caller, completed 14 of 18 passes in competitive periods, including three touchdown passes. He also went 6 of 9 during red zone drills, showcasing his ability to convert in crucial situations. While he was “sacked” twice in non-contact drills, the overall takeaway was positive, particularly in terms of his command of the offense and his decision-making.
One of the more interesting aspects of Maye’s comments was his reflection on an earlier four-interception practice during OTAs. He acknowledged that while that day was tough, he feels he has made significant progress since.
“I think there’s a balance between trying things out and turning the football over. Going back to that day, a deep one, Gonzo fell off. Not to get into football, but Gonzo fell off. Gonzo made a good play. The other one, they bring cover zero, and you just got to have cover zero answers in this league. I learned with that one. I think Hunter [Henry] got held on one. You can take that stuff with a grain of salt, but at the same time, you don’t want to turn the football over and get in bad habits. I feel like I’ve done a good job of trying to keep the football in our hands, and that’s one of our key focuses.”
Maye also talked about the learning experience of facing the Patriots defense, specifically mentioning corners Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis as “two of the best corners and one of the best duos in the league,” and viewing it as a valuable “opportunity to go out there every day and throw against those guys.”
Maye also touched upon his relationship with new wide receiver Stefon Diggs, calling him an “awesome teammate” and his “locker mate.” While Diggs is still recovering from ACL surgery and didn’t participate fully in drills, Maye expressed excitement about being able to throw to him once he’s fully recovered.
“We talk all the time. He’s a veteran in this league. He’s made a lot of plays, played in a lot of big time games. Just an awesome voice for the receiver room, for this offense. He’s played in some playoff games. He’s had some big games. Once he recovers, and he’s getting back out there, I’m looking forward to being able to throw him some footballs. It’s always good having a guy like that on your team.”
The Patriots’ minicamp is a crucial period for Maye as he continues to acclimate to a new coaching staff, including head coach Mike Vrabel, and a re-vamped offensive system. Despite the progress, Maye admitted to being “kind of bummed out we’re about to leave” for the summer break, indicating his eagerness to continue working. Coach Vrabel subsequently announced that the final day of minicamp, originally scheduled for Wednesday, would be canceled, with the team focusing on lifting, running, and meetings instead.
Maye’s media session painted a picture of a young quarterback diligently working to improve, embracing challenges, and building rapport with his teammates as he prepares for his second NFL season. It is a much different experience this time around than it was a year ago.
“I remember this time last year, Pep and Dug [Kyle Dugger], I was playing quarterback back there and we had a one high, two high read, and they were playing with me basically the whole snap. I messed it up. Just confidence and being out there, having reps, seeing some of these plays, seeing how these guys on defense play. I think it’s world’s different. It’s a little different to have a new offense, new verbiage. I think finding where we’re at in the offense and finding what we’re going to be good at in our duties, It’s been fun. It’s been cool.”
The Patriots have one more practice on Tuesday before they wrap everything on Wednesday and head into the summer. We will be seeing Maye and the rest of the Patriots in training camp before you know it.