2024 NFL Draft: 3 pros and cons of Patriots selecting Drake Maye with No. 3 overall pick

The New England Patriots may choose to draft Drake Maye as the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The trade of Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars suggests that the team is seeking a new quarterback who can lead them to success and revive their position in the football world.

Despite New England’s acquisition of Jacoby Brissett, who is not a long-term solution at the quarterback position, the Patriots will still heavily contemplate selecting Maye, particularly if Caleb Williams is taken by the Chicago Bears as the first overall pick.

The Washington Commanders are currently searching for a new quarterback following the trade of Sam Howell to the Seattle Seahawks. This choice will have a significant impact on the New England Patriots’ actions at the third pick. If the Commanders select Jayden Daniels, the path will be clear for the Patriots to draft the highly talented former North Carolina player.

Despite Drake Maye’s potential, his college football experience and the current landscape he would enter by joining the Patriots raise some concerns.

Potential benefits of the Patriots drafting Drake Maye

Maye’s college football career concluded with a total of 618 completed passes out of 952 attempts, resulting in 8,018 yards, 63 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. These statistics, along with his notable attributes and potential scenarios, make him a promising candidate for the Patriots.

#1 Maye’s Arm Strength is Unmatched

Drake Maye has consistently showcased his ability to throw balls downfield with precision. Whether it’s a mid-range pass or a deep bomb, he has impressively displayed his accuracy and generated impressive velocity on the ball.

Producing that zip on the ball can prove advantageous during the winter season at Gillette Stadium, as it can counteract intense gusts of wind.

#2 Incredible portability

Maye has the agility to swiftly maneuver with the ball in case the pocket collapses, ultimately gaining yards in a positive manner.

After evading the pass rush, he is able to utilize his powerful arm to successfully make throws while on the run. His ability to improvise allows him to prolong plays and drives, particularly when defenders tightly cover his receivers.

#3 Uncovering Hidden Gems: Underrated Wide Receivers Who Proved Their Worth

Despite leading the Tar Heels to an 8-5 record and a bowl appearance last season, Drake Maye’s top receiver, J.J. Jones, only recorded 711 yards and three touchdowns.

Devontez Walker recorded 699 yards and seven touchdowns, while Bryson Nesbit had 585 yards and five scoring catches. Both players would seamlessly integrate into the New England team, whose receiving corps includes JuJu Smith-Schuster, Kendrick Bourne, and Demario Douglas.

Possible drawbacks of the Patriots drafting Drake Maye

Despite his talent, Maye’s statistics in 2023 (269 completions, 3,608 yards, 24 touchdowns) were lower than his previous year in 2022 (342 completions, 4,321 yards, 38 touchdowns). This is not the only worrisome aspect for Drake Maye’s future in New England.

#1 Faced less challenging competition in college

Despite winning eight games with Drake Maye, the Tar Heels only managed to defeat one nationally-ranked team, the Miami Hurricanes. As he faces tougher competition in the NFL, the Patriots may find themselves in a difficult situation if Maye is unable to perform well.

#2 Amplifying the impact of mistakes

Despite his savior mentality and belief that he can triumph in every play, Maye must learn to exercise discipline and give up on plays in order to avoid interceptions and sacks. This is especially important if the Patriots have a favorable field position.

#3 Maye could struggle against tough divisional competition

If he is selected by the Patriots, he will be competing in a division against Tua Tagovailoa, Josh Allen, and Aaron Rodgers.

The scenario could prove to be daunting for a new player. Additionally, he must constantly be aware of top edge rushers such as Greg Rosseau, Von Miller, Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, Quinnen Williams, and Haason Reddick on every play. His self-assurance may falter if any of these skilled defenders manage to get to him.