Fantasy football is the ultimate test of fun, with bragging rights between friends often on the line. Usually, guys roll the dice on certain players, and it turns out to pay dividends.
Could Drake Maye be one of those guys this season? It's not impossible to believe that. The Patriots' second-year quarterback is due for a major second-year leap thanks to the combination of a new coaching staff and better talent surrounding him.
According to ESPN's Eric Karabell, fantasy owners should consider taking a risk on Maye this season, as he believes Maye will generate more points than fellow 2024 draft pick Caleb Williams.
Drake Maye's versatility and new offense could jumpstart his fantasy numbers
Karabell believes the combination of Maye's running abilities and the presence of wide receiver Stefon Diggs will turbocharge Maye's fantasy numbers. That should be a good sign for Patriots' fans, as Karabell also predicted that Williams will eclipse 4,000 yards passing this season.
If Maye's fantasy points indeed are higher than those of Williams when it's all said and done, not only could Maye surpass 4,000 yards through the air, but he could put up solid numbers while scrambling, and more importantly, help the Patriots make a playoff push in a crowded AFC.
Having success in fantasy football as an individual doesn't always guarantee success for that player's team. However, if Maye can generate more fantasy points than Williams, not only will Maye's fantasy owners be pleased, but Patriots fans should also be satisfied with the team's results this season.
If you're in a league with keepers, where players generally pick three players to hold onto at the end of the season, maybe Maye is a guy to hold onto in that regard if he has a quality 2025 campaign. Oftentimes, it's sleeper picks like Maye that go on to win fantasy owners' championships.
At best, Maye is a solid second quarterback in most fantasy leagues, but given the changes New England made to make the team better around him, fantasy owners should roll the dice on Maye. It could mean the difference between winning and losing in the end. You don't win unless you take chances.