On August 26, the Patriots head coach explained on WEEI The Greg Hill Show that Drake Maye was better than Jacoby Brissett during the preseason.
The rookie finished the preseason by completing 21 of his 34 pass attempts, for 192 yards and a touchdown. For his part, Brissett only threw 14 balls, for 5 receptions and an interception.
Yet it was the veteran who was named the starter. Now, Jerod Mayo is trying to put out the fire by explaining himself to Doug Kyed for the Boston Herald.
“I should have given more context to my release at the time. Drake got more playing time in the preseason than Jacoby, and that was intentional.”
Mayo also justified his choice of starting quarterback.
“There were a number of factors that went into this decision. I think the hardest part was having to think both short term and long term. As an organization, we feel like Jacoby gives us a better chance to win right now.”
Drake Maye will most certainly get his chance
But then, will we see Drake Maye in action this year? Apparently there is a chance.
“If Jacoby gets hurt in Week 1, 1000% Drake will start since he's the No. 2 quarterback on our roster. […] If you're not playing well, if you're not giving us the best chance to win games, regardless of position, we'll look at our other options. I think it's healthy stress. I think it's healthy competition.”
In a division where the Patriots seem the least well-equipped and with a tough schedule to start (Bengals, 49ers and Dolphins in the first 5 weeks), seeing New England string together defeats would not be a surprise. Maye could then take his first steps in the big league, much sooner than expected.
