There isn't much worth remembering about the Patriots' 2024 season, and for the most part, fans choose not to look back on one of the worst years in New England football history. There is one undeniable bright spot, however, and that, of course, is the decision to select QB Drake Maye with the third overall pick.
His rookie season was already impressive, and he has only built on that even more in Year 2, as he was in the MVP conversation for much of the season, and has now helped lead the Patriots to the AFC Championship. But it didn't look like that was going to happen with the old regime, which is partly why Robert Kraft chose to move on after just one year and bring in Mike Vrabel.
That has already paid off, and so has Vrabel's decision to bring back Josh McDaniels for his third stint in Foxboro. The connection he has with Maye and the work they've done together is nothing short of tremendous, and it all tracks back to Vrabel.
Maye has been nothing but complimentary of his new head coach, and has now discussed what sets him apart from others across the league, which also seems to prove what was lacking during his rookie year.
Drake Maye inadvertently answers lingering questions about the Patriots' previous regime's coaching style
After beating the Texans in what was a hard-nosed defensive battle, Maye was asked by reporters about the difference that Vrabel has made on him in his second season, and he didn't mince words with his response.
Although Mayo was never mentioned, it's hard not to compare the quarterback's words, attitude, and production this year to last season, and it's clear what was lacking: being challenged, among other things.
Drake Maye on how Mike Vrabel has helped him in his second NFL season:
— Mike Kadlick (@mikekadlick) January 18, 2026
“He challenges me. He challenges me every day. He’s always got something to say…. Just trying to listen to him and learn as much as I can… He coaches hard but he also cares about us a lot and I think that…
Many things about Mayo and his staff were not good, some of which were not his fault. But the staff's inexperience and their seeming lack of urgency or toughness to make the team better are far more noticeable this season with the new group.
On top of that, Maye and almost every other player who has spoken to the media this year have consistently pointed out how genuine the coaches are and the brotherhood that has been created because of it.
It's no secret they weren't a close roster in 2024, but that cannot be said under Vrabel, and that has certainly helped elevate the entire team to new heights, including Maye.
Kraft already appeared to be vindicated by his decision to let go of Mayo after just one season and to hire Vrabel so quickly, mostly because he was a desirable head coach candidate for every other team in need.
And now that they're headed to the AFCCG after winning 14 games in the regular season and seeing how close-knit this team is, it's clear that the Patriots' owner hit the jackpot in more ways than one.