Drake Maye experienced a challenging start during the New England Patriots’ OTAs last Tuesday, throwing four interceptions in just eight passing attempts. Despite this rocky beginning, he managed to recover quickly and drew positive attention, including praise from veteran tight end Hunter Henry, who noted the quarterback’s resilience on the field.
In a closed practice two days later, Maye reportedly demonstrated significant improvement, displaying sharpness and avoiding turnovers during his session, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss. This encouraging turnaround has renewed optimism about the sophomore quarterback’s potential on the Patriots’ offense.
Context Behind Maye’s Early Struggles and Progress During OTAs
Drake Maye’s pro debut in Foxboro last season was marked by an underwhelming offensive environment, contributing to his initial difficulties. After the team released wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster early in the preseason, Maye was left without a proven 1,000-yard wide receiver target. Meanwhile, running back Rhamondre Stevenson was sidelined due to ball security issues, and tight end Hunter Henry was the only dependable offensive weapon.
These limitations played a role in the Patriots finishing the season with a 4-13 record, resulting in the firing of defensive leader Jerod Mayo. Heading into 2025, New England is taking steps to revamp their offensive foundation to better support Maye’s development as their franchise quarterback.
New Coaching and Key Additions Boost Offensive Outlook
The Patriots have responded to last season’s struggles by bringing back Mike Vrabel as head coach and Josh Daniels as offensive coordinator. The presence of multiple-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs, who has recovered from an ACL injury, gives the offense a reliable, high-level playmaker to complement Maye’s talents. This veteran addition is expected to transform the dynamic of New England’s offensive attack.
Despite this, some analysts believe the Patriots should continue improving Maye’s supporting cast. Musket Fire columnist Wynston Wilcox suggests that adding another dominant receiver, such as Green Bay Packers’ Romeo Doubs, could further elevate Maye’s impact on the field.
Trade Talks for Romeo Doubs Could Enhance Maye’s Arsenal
Discussions about acquiring Romeo Doubs have surfaced as a potential way to strengthen Maye’s receiving options. Sterling Xie of Pro Football & Sports Network has noted this possible move, emphasizing how adding a talented receiver like Doubs could maximize Maye’s potential.
“Doubs in New England could help unlock Drake Maye’s full potential. Loading Maye up with as many weapons as possible will help the Patriots know right away if they have another Mac Jones or if Maye is destined to be the franchise cornerstone he was drafted to be.”
—Sterling Xie, Pro Football & Sports Network
“The Patriots are doing everything they can to make sure Maye can succeed. He can do that with or without Doubs, but if the Patriots do relieve the Packers from their overcrowded receiver room, it could be what helps Maye reach new heights.”
—Sterling Xie, Pro Football & Sports Network
Positivity Builds as OTAs Continue Toward Season Preparation
With OTAs resuming on Tuesday, May 27, and continuing through June 5, Maye’s noticeable improvement and the team’s moves to enhance his supporting cast have generated hopeful expectations among Patriots fans and analysts alike. The organization’s commitment to surrounding Maye with experienced coaching and skilled offensive weapons could be key to overcoming the challenges he faced early in his professional career.
As the team builds toward the 2025 season, Drake Maye’s sharp bounce back at Patriots OTAs suggests that he remains a promising figure to lead the franchise forward, potentially securing his role as a central part of New England’s future success.