The New England Patriots had one of the best quarterbacks of all time, Tom Brady, who brought the franchise six Super Bowls in 20 seasons.
Since Brady left New England for Tampa Bay in March of 2020, the organization has been having trouble finding his replacement.
In 2021, New England drafted quarterback Mac Jones, but he never worked out.
Last year, the Patriots drafted quarterback Drake Maye with the No. 3 pick, and after his first season, he looks like he can fill Brady’s shoes.
In 13 games last season, Maye threw for 2,276 yards and 15 touchdown passes with limited skill position players.
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The second season is always a quarterback’s toughest year, and Pro Football Focus’s John Kosko ranked Maye as the 22nd-best quarterback heading into the 2025 season.
“Maye went through the expected rookie growing pains, finishing the year with a 64.9 passing grade and more turnover-worthy plays (16) than big-time throws (14),” Kosko wrote. “He faced one of the league’s worst offensive lines and had limited support in the receiving corps. With Mike Vrabel taking over as head coach and upgrades around him, the No. 3 overall pick from 2024 is positioned to take a step forward in Year 2.”
Maye has what it takes to be one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. He is a great thrower of the football and can even pick up yards with his legs, which is critical on crucial downs.
If Maye can take another leap this season, New England could compete for a playoff spot this year.
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