New England Patriots - NESN.com
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye knows he runs hot when the lights first come on.
The 22-year-old admitted he sometimes comes out of the gate too charged, leading to errant throws or risky decisions. A high pass in preseason Week 2 that deflected off DeMario Douglas’ hands could have been costly, and his first drive in his debut ended with a turnover. Maye chalked those moments up to adrenaline.
“It’s kind of like basketball, where you want a layup before taking threes,” Maye said, as transcribed by Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald. “Maybe it’s an easy run, maybe it’s a quick throw. Once you get into the game, it feels good.”
Head coach Mike Vrabel isn’t worried about how his quarterback handles pregame nerves. He said some players are naturally wound tighter than others but emphasized execution and command of the huddle over mood.
Maye insists the jitters fade quickly and that his focus sharpens once the game settles. He pointed out that last season, he actually completed nearly 73 percent of his passes in first quarters, a sign that his energy hasn’t derailed production.
Still, limiting mistakes will be critical as he begins his first regular season under Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Maye threw for 58 yards across two preseason games and added a rushing score, but he also fumbled once, a reminder of the need for ball security.
Now, with Week 1 against the Raiders approaching, Maye said he feels prepared after spending the summer learning McDaniels’ system.
“I’m just trying to take the details, follow the rules, and be instinctive,” he said.
Maye may never lose the nerves, but the Patriots are counting on him to turn that energy into results.
