Drake Maye’s emergence has powered New England Patriots’ remarkable turnaround this season. The Patriots sit atop the AFC after a 7-2 start, and Maye’s week-to-week consistency has been the engine behind it.
In his second season he’s become one of the league’s most efficient passers. Fifth in passing yards (2,285), tied for third in touchdowns (17), and leading the NFL in completion percentage at 74.1%. His passer rating (116.9) and QBR (74.0) sit among the league leaders, and he’s produced eight straight games with at least 200 passing yards and a rating over 100.
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Maye’s skill set shows up in advanced metrics too. Next Gen Stats lists him first in tight-window completion percentage (62.2%) and his average depth of target is 8.52 yards, proving he can hit tight windows and attack downfield.
MORE: NFL: Takeaways from Week 9 in the AFC East
Off the field, Maye keeps things simple.
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On social media he said, “Don’t take criticism from someone you wouldn’t take advice from.” He added, “You see all the praise when you’re successful and all the hatred you get when things go bad.” Maye stresses he only cares about what his teammates think, a locker-room-first attitude that keeps him focused.
https://twitter.com/NFL\_DovKleiman/status/1986088311912370339
New England also made moves at the trade deadline, trading Ja’Lynn Polk, Kyle Dugger and Keion White while signing wideout Brenden Rice. The deadline activity showed the Pats are building around Maye, not away from him, which is a good thing for him and the team.
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If he sustains this play, Maye won’t just lead New England, he’ll be the frontrunner in the MVP race. Fans and analysts will watch every snap, late-season performances frequently determine how MVP voters ultimately decide this season.
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