Drake Maye has broken a totally unexpected record for the Patriots this year

Dec 1, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA;  New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) runs the ball while Indianapolis Colts defensive end Kwity Paye (51) defends during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Dec 1, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) runs the ball while Indianapolis Colts defensive end Kwity Paye (51) defends during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images / Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
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Expectations were high for rookie quarterback Drake Maye as soon as the Patriots decided to pick him with their third overall pick in the draft earlier this year, and for the most part, he has lived up to the hype since taking over as the starter in Week 6. Although he hasn't been able to add more wins than losses, he has continuously been impressed with his progress, especially considering how many draft analysts and experts labeled him as a project heading into the draft.

He has presumably already proven he will be New England's newest franchise quarterback, solidifying himself as the future of the team in a much more convincing way than Mac Jones had during his three years in Foxboro.

Maye has displayed all the tools to lead the Patriots to great success as soon as next season and will (hopefully) make them a competitive team again in short order. A big reason for that is the duality of his play, as he has consistently extended drives by scrambling for big yards.

That is a significant change for the Patriots, who have historically had pocket passers under center. Maye has a great arm and presence in the pocket, but his ability to run and move the chains when nobody is open or he doesn't like the looks has been a big part of his success this season. It has ultimately led to him breaking a longtime record by all quarterbacks, further proving he is the right guy for the job.

Drake Maye is showing to be a far more impressive quarterback than anyone expected

If someone told Patriots fans at the beginning of the season that Maye would lead all quarterbacks since the 2000 season with the highest yards per carry, surely not many would believe you.

But that is the case through 13 games, with Maye beating out the likes of Michael Vick and Kyler Murray, both of whom are known for their dual-threat performances.

Having this as part of their quarterback's repertoire is a game-changer for the Patriots and puts them on par with the rising trend in the league among quarterbacks. But it gives them a bit of a one-up over the competition because implementing the run game is not the central part of Maye's play, as he is an incredible passer first and foremost.

No matter what, he will inevitably be a reason the Patriots win games because of all that he can do as a well-rounded quarterback

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