Ex-Packers QB raises major red flags on 2024 Draft prospect Drake Maye’s tape

With less than a month until the 2024 NFL Draft, Drake Maye remains highly sought after as one of the top players transitioning from college football. For the better part of the past two years, Maye was considered the second-ranked quarterback in the upcoming draft class, but recent developments have altered this perception.

Despite having a less impactful season in 2023 compared to 2022, the North Carolina quarterback has come under scrutiny and doubts have been raised about his abilities. Former Green Bay Packers quarterback Kurt Benkert has highlighted some potential weaknesses in Maye’s game that may pose a challenge for him in the NFL. He stated:

“He has a high ceiling. He’s got a big arm. He’s kinda sloppy with his feet and really inconsistent as a passer, and he misses a lot of throws that I don’t think a top-10 quarterback should miss.

“That’s the thing about the NFL. Most people can make the crazy plays a time or two here and there and he does that every single game in his college tape, but he just misses the easy plays that I know in the NFL get a little harder.”

Despite being compared to Justin Herbert for his size, there are concerns about Drake Maye’s ability to execute simple plays in the NFL, as pointed out by Benkert. However, with the potential for improvement, it is possible that Maye may not immediately start in his rookie season.

In his final year at North Carolina, Maye had a total of 3,608 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in 12 games. In contrast, during his previous season, Maye recorded 4,321 passing yards, 38 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions in 14 games.

The 21-year-old quarterback’s performance this season was negatively affected by the departure of Josh Downs, Antoine Green, and Asim Richards, all of whom were drafted last year.

Potential Landing Spots for Drake Maye in the NFL Draft

Currently, it is predicted that Drake Maye will be selected as the third overall pick in the draft. The New England Patriots hold this pick, however, there is a chance that they may choose to trade it and move down in the draft.

The Minnesota Vikings may consider drafting Maye, as they are in need of a new quarterback following Kirk Cousins’ departure. However, the Patriots will likely ask for a significant return from the Vikings if they wish to move up and select Maye.

The Vikings would be the perfect team for Maye to join, as he would have the opportunity to learn during his rookie season while Sam Darnold takes the reins. With the talented trio of Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson on offense, it would be a dream situation for the young rookie.

Nevertheless, should the Patriots choose to draft him, Maye would have the opportunity to develop under the guidance of Jacoby Brissett in his first year, and potentially assume the starting role in the following season when the team acquires additional talented players to support him.