After some early-season hiccups, those who still doubted Drake Maye was the right guy to lead the New England Patriots' offense have gone radio silent. The third-year quarterback keeps improving right before our eyes.
Josh McDaniels helped him out of his slump by calling some quick-hitters and easy, scripted completions. That's nice, but Maye is a gunslinger first and foremost, and he shows that every week. With a mini-bye ahead of them, maybe they can open the playbook and give him more chances to make big plays.
As the Patriots' communications department noted, Maye has thrown 11 touchdown passes of at least 30 yards over the past two seasons, the most in the league during that span. He's also thrown at least two such passes in a single game three times.
The Patriots must maximize Drake Maye's deep pass abilities
Maye entered the league as a seemingly raw but physically enticing quarterback prospect. His arm strength was notorious, and his traits were ideal for the position, making him look like a little Josh Allen. Fast forward to today, and he's only maximized what made him such an intriguing project.
An offense can't live solely off the home run and, admittedly, Maye didn't always make the best decision when he insisted on pushing the ball downfield. But with his ability to layer throws and anticipation skills, not letting him rip the pigskin feels like a disservice.
Also, the Patriots have the right guys for the job. DeMario Douglas is a speedster, A.J. Brown has always been a bully and a ball-winner, and even Kyle Williams has been a deep-play specialist in a limited role.
Josh McDaniels' offenses have often relied on play action, getting the ball out quickly, staying ahead of the sticks with smart reads, and avoiding risks. That's fine, but Maye can add juice to that with the occasional big play.
Maybe the Patriots can take a page out of Matt LaFleur's book with Jordan Love this season. The Green Bay Packers are putting their playmaking wide receivers in position to beat coverage with their speed and acceleration, making the most of Love's arm strength and precision to keep the secondary off-balance.
Opposing defenses should know that they must respect Maye's arm, even though, ironically, he's not known for pushing the ball often. He's elite when he does, and while he'll probably get more green light as he develops, it's time the Patriots unleash him and let him do what he does best.
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