The New England Patriots have a plan for playing time for rookie quarterback Drake Maye. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared the conditions for when the rookie could potentially start.
Jacoby Brissett will be the starter to open the season against the Cincinnati Bengals. However, there’s a possibility that Maye could start later in the season. Rapoport indicated that New England will sit the UNC product for “probably several weeks,” at least.
“They were really impressed by what he showed at training camp,” said Rapoport. “Obviously, the talent was something that they knew when they drafted him. His command and knowledge for sure impressed the organization.
“But as far as when he’s going to play, they want to put him in a position to succeed, and they also are not going to put him out there unless he is the guy who gives the team the best chance to win. From my understanding, that means they’re going to make sure that the offensive line is good enough to put him out there. The skilled position group is all set for Maye to come in right away and have success. Probably going to be several weeks, at least.”
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay with @MikeGarafolo and @TomPelissero: When will the #Patriots put Drake Maye on the field? Plans for the #49ers, plus WR Ricky Pearsall could be back Week 5; The #Cowboys and Dak Prescott remain in contact about a contract, plus CeeDee Lamb is jacked. pic.twitter.com/HTYunaDpSG
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 8, 2024
Brissett was officially named the starter at the end of August, but reviews have been positive for the rookie.
Maye had a strong preseason that included completing 13-of-20 passes for 126 yards and a touchdown in the preseason finale against the Washington Commanders.
Although this isn’t groundbreaking news, this is certainly notable, given that fans are anticipating when the rookie will start. It sounds as though they may have to wait a bit, as New England continues with the development process.