Ex-Patriots QB Uncovers NFL’s Reality With Drake Maye Compelled to Step Up Amid Jacoby Brissett’s Risk

The Patriots‘ first 2 games in 2024 have revealed a very interesting dynamic about their quarterback situation. Their main QB, Jacoby Brissett, has been at the forefront of their campaign. Drake Maye has been preparing silently far from the spotlight. However, the situation might change soon. Dangers of injury are looming over the main QB after taking hits during games. Many analysts are commenting upon the situation.

Former Pats’ quarterback, Brian Hoyer, recently appeared on The Quick Snap podcast where he talked about the state of affairs. He said, “When you play this close game, those ones hurt a little bit more. I remember telling Mac Jones as a rookie ‘cause he came from Alabama, he didn’t lose a lot. And there were some games we lost early in his career. You know he played really well.” The ‘hurt’ he referenced was what the Pats felt after the 23-20 loss against the Seahawks.

The ex-NFL star’s comments were aimed at the rookie quarterback Drake Maye. Under Brissett, the Patriots won the first game against the Bengals and lost the 2nd game in overtime. He highlighted the difference between the NCAA and NFL perfectly, saying. “Dude, this is not college. In college, if you’re the quarterback and you play well, you’re gonna win. And in the NFL, you may play your best game and lose. There may be a game where you just play average, don’t turn the ball over, and still win. And that’s the NFL I think.” There’s no option for the team which is undergoing revival. Brissett has put his body on the line for the wins.

The main QB is risking it all. Against Seahawks, he was limping after taking a sack (on his right knee) from the Leonard Williams. During another play, he hit his left shoulder and took a hit to his ribs as well. But the question is how can he sustain himself? We’ll see. Drake Maye is the obvious replacement if Brissett gets injured.

But a big worry is the offensive line of Patriots.

Can Drake Maye lead the Pats’ O-line?

While the Head Coach Jerod Mayo is making plans for his quarterback, the offensive department is also giving him headaches. The Patriots were ranked 29th in NFL’s offensive team list. They have performed poorly in the aerial passing and the blocking game as well. Subsequently, their pressure rate is also the 2nd worst in the league. With such teammates, Drake Maye might have a different struggle altogether.

The coach is already planning for the next matchup against the Jets. Mayo said on The Greg Hill Show, “For me, I’m focused on the Jets. I’m not looking that far out. As an organization, we’re still 100% behind Jacoby.” Yet doubts prevail over his (Brissett’s) fitness and the situation can turn south anytime now.

Most analysts and the locker room itself knows that injuries can become a spoiler. And it is the last thing they would want. While the next few weeks are crucial for them, Drake Maye has to be ready. His moment is right around the corner.