New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Patriots QB Drake Maye a work in progress according to head coach

By Sam Minton | Last updated 5/13/24

The New England Patriots selected Drake Maye with the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. A selection that high would usually dictate a quarterback immediately jumping into the starting role, but head coach Jerod Mayo might have different plans.

Speaking to the media on Saturday, New England's first-year head coach stated that Maye still has a lot to work on.

"He has a lot to work on. A lot to work on," Mayo said via ESPN's Mike Reiss. "But I have no doubt that he will put the time in. He was here all night trying to get on the same page as everyone else."

Mayo's comments seem to align with comments that former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick made when discussing the Patriots selection on ESPN.

"He hasn't played very much. He really doesn't have a lot of experience. He's going to need some work in reading defenses, reading coverages," said Belichick. "He's kind of quick to bail out of the pocket. He's going to need to hang in there a little bit longer and find those receivers.

"This is a kid that can make all the throws, he just needs to be more consistent," Belichick added.

The New England Patriots are selecting Drake Maye..

CONGRATULATIONS @BostonConnr #PMSDraftSpectacular pic.twitter.com/vOjQB9CUXd
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 26, 2024

If Maye wants to be New England's starting quarterback, he will need to win the job from Jacoby Brissett. The veteran has experience in the Patriots system and would provide time for Maye to develop.

Considering Mayo's comments, that might be the best option. If Maye does have a lot to work on, learning from a veteran such as Brissett would be extremely valuable for the rookie.

Expectations for the Patriots are quite low. A better performance is expected in 2024 after going 4-13 in 2023, but it is not like fans in New England are expecting a Super Bowl ring.

So while Patriots fans might be anxious to see what Maye can do on the field, sitting on the sidelines might be the most beneficial option for the quarterback's long-term success.

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