The New England Patriots selected quarterback Drake Maye with the third overall pick in the 2024 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL Draft not just to be good, but to become a franchise savior who could restore the team‘s former glory. As the 2025 season unfolds, Maye is facing increasing expectations to improve significantly under the watchful eye of head coach Mike Vrabel and receiving crucial mentorship from wide receiver Stefon Diggs. The pressure on Maye to elevate his game and “put that mustard” on his throws has never been greater.

The High Stakes Surrounding Drake Maye’s Development

Since being drafted, Drake Maye’s rookie season revealed flashes of potential alongside troubling inconsistencies. While the Patriots hope he will grow into the quarterback they envisioned, recent performances have raised concerns. Sports analyst Nick Cattles highlighted on the Locked On Patriots podcast that Maye cannot afford to plateau and simply maintain his current level. He emphasized,

“Drake Maye cannot plateau. We can’t look back at 2024 and say that that’s who Drake Maye is… You drafted Drake Maye because you felt like Maye had that ceiling, had that potential that he was going to grow into certain things on the field.”

Maye’s tape from last season showed 14 turnover-worthy plays in just 10 starts and a completion rate of only 58.4% on intermediate passes, underscoring the need for rapid progress.

Tom E. Curran, observing Maye’s struggles during offseason training activities, noted a particularly difficult day where Maye threw four interceptions. Curran broke down the plays, saying,

“One was a defensive hold. One appeared to be a miscommunication. One was a great play by Christian Gonzalez. And one, it looked like Maye airmailed the wide receiver.”

The Patriots cannot afford these costly mistakes as the offensive unit ranks 30th in the league, a ranking that demands urgent correction.

Stefon Diggs’ Impact on Maye’s Confidence and Technique

Amid the mounting pressure, Stefon Diggs has stepped in not merely as a teammate but as a mentor pushing Maye to unlock his full potential. Diggs’ recent private throwing session with Maye in North Carolina illuminated the exact kind of fiery challenge the veteran receiver brought to his new quarterback. Diggs urged Maye to stop hesitating, bluntly telling him,

“Hey, don’t be scared to put that (expletive) mustard on there. I know you got it in there.”

This phrase captured the essence of Diggs’ message: Maye must throw with conviction and aggression, turning tentative throws into game-changing plays.

The energy during their throwing sessions, which included reps at William Amos Hough High School in Cornelius and late-night work at Davidson College, was infectious. Without coaches or a play clock dictating them, the sessions focused on developing trust between Maye and his receivers, including DeMario Douglas and Ja’Lynn Polk. Teammates even playfully shouted “Mustaaard!” in a nod to the Kendrick Lamar track, reflecting the blend of humor and intensity at work.

A Wider Network Supporting Maye’s Growth

The influence of veteran players extends beyond Diggs’ direct mentorship. Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills’ MVP quarterback, acknowledged Maye’s promise, calling him

“one of my favorite young QBs”

and describing him as the “embodiment of football.” Allen praised Maye’s mental approach, saying

“He’s got his head on his shoulders the right way.”

Such endorsements underscore Maye’s potential to answer the high expectations placed on him.

Allen also credited Diggs with elevating his own performance during their time in Buffalo, emphasizing,

“He brings a lot of security for Drake,”

which affirms the stabilizing presence Diggs can offer the rookie quarterback. However, this support will only endure if Maye steps up and delivers in crucial moments.

The Urgency Behind the Patriots’ Pursuit of Excellence

The Patriots’ selection of Maye represented a clear attempt to return to championship contention after years of uncertainty following Tom Brady’s departure. Head coach Mike Vrabel’s demanding style adds to the urgency, as Maye must improve his footwork, sharpen his decision-making, and avoid forcing risky throws that defenders can exploit. Compounding the challenge, AFC East rivals like the Bills present defenses that leave very little margin for error, escalating the pressure on Maye to develop quickly.

Stefon Diggs’ arrival in New England signals serious intent, not simply to mentor, but to compete for wins immediately. The Patriots’ offensive woes demand that Maye not remain static but improve visibly this season. If Maye hesitates or fails to capitalize on his physical gifts and the guidance provided, Diggs’ patience may wear thin, and the hope of a breakthrough season could falter.

What Lies Ahead for Maye and the Patriots

The 2025 NFL season will be a pivotal test for Drake Maye as he navigates the transition from promising rookie to proven leader under center. With Stefon Diggs firmly by his side, this partnership carries the potential to reenergize the Patriots’ offense and bring a sense of renewed confidence to Foxborough. The team and its fanbase are eager for Maye to justify his high draft selection by executing with authority and reducing costly errors.

As the season continues, close attention will be on whether Maye can internalize Diggs’ advice and consistently “put that mustard” on his throws, converting flashes of talent into sustained success. For New England, the stakes could not be higher as they seek a return to relevance in a fiercely competitive AFC East.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Did Stefon Diggs date Cardi B?

A. Cardi B, aged 32, and Diggs, aged 31, publicly announced their relationship during the NBA Playoffs in May. They then confirmed it on Instagram in June.

Q. Are Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs still friends?

A. Allen expressed his deep appreciation for Diggs and said he continues to feel that way. He mentioned that Diggs had a significant impact on his career and his contributions to the Buffalo Bills are unforgettable, especially to Allen. The Bills quarterback also expects that they will greet each other with friendly words during the pregame warmups.