Drake Maye is still waiting for that baptism by fire. And let’s be honest—by the time he steps in, the flames might cool off. Many Patriots fans are actually scratching their heads. Especially with Jacoby Brissett leading an offense that’s been about as exciting as a two-yard run on third and long. One might think that the overall third pick, who is getting about 30 percent of the starting reps and some time on the scout team, is primed for a call-up. But don’t hold your breath just yet. OC Alex Van Pelt has other ideas.

Van Pelt made it clear that the shaky offensive line isn’t going to change the game plan for Maye. “I would say no. I think we just gotta continue doing what’s best for the team,” he stated. Winning on Sunday is the priority, and they’ll stick to that plan. So for now, it seems like Maye will have to keep sharpening his skills while Jacoby Brissett takes the snaps. But hey, how long can they afford to play it safe?

Now, we get it—playing it safe seems like the logical route. I mean, it’s just been four games. But what happens if Brissett goes down? Then it’d no longer be about testing Maye. Instead, it’d be throwing him into the fire without any proper protection. The kid would have to maneuver around a rocky offensive line that’s struggling to keep defenders at bay.

And these are not just words thrown for a spanner. Remember, week 4 against the 49ers? Brissett faced 19 pressures, with 11 occurring in under 2.5 seconds! That’s like asking your QB to cook in a burning house. Sure, the seasoned vet managed to pull off some impressive throws. But there were moments that had fans on the edge.

No one’s pointing fingers entirely at Brissett. NO! We understand the O-line has been a revolving door for defenders. Individually, he made some questionable choices under pressure, including a costly pick-six throw he could’ve avoided. Hence why fans have been clamoring for Maye, believing his off-script playmaking could catch the defenses off-guard. But for now, it’s not really a panic state.

Up next, the Patriots face the Dolphins in week 5, and you better believe it’s a game they can’t afford to lose. With Miami’s offense struggling, this matchup is a golden opportunity for New England. But if they stumble against a shorthanded Phins team, you can bet those tough questions will start flying.

For now, even the Foxborough legend, Big Gronk believes the Pats must remain patient with Drake Maye.

Rob Gronkowski believes Drake Maye’s for the future!

You’ve got to listen to your future HOFer right? And if that’s Rob Gronkowski‘s calming voice then it’s even better. Pats Nation, your legend believes it’s too soon for Drake Maye to take the reins.

Gronk weighed in during halftime of the Patriots’ 30-13 loss to the 49ers. With the Patriots trailing 20-3 and Jacoby Brissett struggling, his voice cut through the noise. “New England Patriots fans, I know what you’re saying: ‘Put Drake Maye in, this offense needs a spark.’ But I’m telling you, it will be the same old story with Drake Maye in if he replaces Jacoby Brissett.”

And honestly, he has a point! With a shaky offensive line letting defenders through like a turnstile, throwing Maye in could be more of a recipe for disaster than a spark. “You don’t want to ruin his confidence,” Gronk added. So maybe waiting until at least Week 12 isn’t such a bad idea.

Despite the mounting frustration—New England is averaging a dismal 13 points per game and sitting at 31st in the NFL—head coach Jerod Mayo is standing by Brissett for now. “At this point, Jacoby is our starting quarterback,” Mayo said.

They’re evaluating every position, but what do you think? Should the Patriots let Maye take a shot, or are they better off keeping him on the sidelines for a while longer? The clock’s ticking, the games running by, and so is their chance of making it into the playoffs.