A New Era for the Patriots
Drake Maye, the quarterback for the New England Patriots, recently appeared on “WEEI Afternoons on Monday” to discuss various topics related to the upcoming 2025 season. The second-year player shared insights about his role as the team’s starting quarterback and highlighted some key developments within the organization.
Embracing the Role of Starter
Maye has become a familiar face in leading the Patriots’ offense. While Jacoby Brissett started the 2024 season as the team’s quarterback, it didn’t take long for Maye to step up and become the go-to option. He started 12 games last season, but this year, he is entering the season as the unquestioned starter.
Reflecting on his experience, Maye mentioned that the lead-up to the 2025 campaign will be different from last year. “Last year, I was preparing and trying to review the call sheet and hit guys here and there as the backup going into Week 1,” he said. “There’s always a different kind of juice when you’re coming out here as the starter.”
He expressed excitement about the opportunity to start the season and play in front of the home crowd. “It’s a different feel, and I’m excited. That’s one of the things I’m most excited for, getting out there and getting to start Week 1.”
Building a Rapport with the Coaching Staff
Despite some subdued performances during the preseason, Maye feels he is building a strong relationship with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. “Yeah, building each and every day,” he said. “I’m getting more and more comfortable.”
Maye acknowledged that the game plan for Week 1 might differ from what they practice, as they study the defense and look for opportunities. “I think just fine-tuning the details, and for me, just going back over stuff that may be simple for me in the past, but just going back over the little things and little protection cues and stuff that may come up that we maybe haven’t seen.”
Adjusting to the Pressure
Maye also discussed his preseason performance, noting that some of his up-and-down play could be attributed to being too fired up at the start of games. “It’s kind of like back in the day playing basketball: find a layup before you start shooting some threes,” he said. “I think whether it’s a good run with the guys up front, the running backs or maybe an easy completion.”
He emphasized the importance of staying calm and collected. “Whether it’s going to be jitters or going to be fired up, that’s more what it is, just to kind of calm that. I think, use the guys around me as well. Use the guys around me to kind of feel like, ‘Hey, if they’re pumped up, I’m going to get a little pumped up,’ but when I get out there, be cool, calm and collected.”
Supporting Cast and Rookie Impact
While Maye’s performance will be crucial for the Patriots in 2025, he also needs a stronger supporting cast, especially on the receiver side. One player who has stood out during the preseason is Efton Chism III, an undrafted rookie wideout.
Chism has made a strong impression, securing a roster spot after catching 12 passes for 121 yards and two touchdowns in two preseason games. Maye praised Chism for his work ethic and dedication. “It’s a great example of a guy coming in here trying to earn a role doing things the right way,” he said.
Maye noted that Chism often spends time in the treatment room, working on his body and staying healthy. “He’s always in the treatment room,” Maye joked. “I always joke with him — he’s always in there working on his body and getting healthy. I’m like, ‘Good gosh, you’re the No. 1 treatment guy.’”
Maye believes that Chism’s commitment to excellence reflects the values that have made the Patriots successful in the past. “At the end of the day, stuff like that, showing up every day and doing things right gets you on the team and gets you on the field.”
