In a surprising move, the New England Patriots have decided to draft quarterback Drake Maye with the third overall pick in the NFL draft, despite rumors that they were considering trading down. The decision to select Maye signals the Patriots’ belief that he can be their long-term quarterback solution after the departure of Tom Brady in 2020.
Maye, a 6-foot-4, 223-pound prospect from North Carolina, had a stellar college career, earning ACC Player of the Year honors in 2022. He is considered a safe bet due to his size and ability, and he is expected to compete for the starting job in New England this season.
The Patriots have been searching for a long-term quarterback solution since Brady left for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020. They have tried Mac Jones, Cam Newton, and Bailey Zappe, but none have been able to adequately fill Brady’s shoes. Maye is now the latest quarterback to get a chance to prove himself in New England.
The Patriots’ decision to draft Maye was a surprise to many, as there were rumors that they were considering trading down in the draft. However, the Patriots decided to stay put and select Maye, who they believe has the potential to be a franchise quarterback.
Maye is the third quarterback to be selected in the top 10 of the NFL draft this year, joining Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams and Washington Commanders’ Jaden Daniels. The move highlights the importance of the quarterback position in the NFL, and the Patriots are hoping that Maye can be the answer to their long-term quarterback problems.
