The debating and guessing about the Patriots' impending decision to make rookie quarterback Drake Maye the new starter is officially over. Multiple NFL insiders have announced that the team has benched Jacoby Brissett for their upcoming matchup with the Texans in Week 6.
This is a significant yet not totally unexpected change, given how poorly the season has gone, especially in their latest game against the Dolphins. It was a winnable matchup, as Miami is dealing with several setbacks of its own.
But the Patriots' continued mistakes got in their way on Sunday, which was unfortunate considering how many chances the Dolphins gave them to win the game.
The Patriots are turning to their rookie QB Drake Maye, who now takes over as the starter, per source. pic.twitter.com/08vStLCMYB
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) October 8, 2024
In hopes of countering that, Jerod Mayo and Co. believe Maye will provide a boost to the offense in what should be a tough game on Sunday against a very talented Texans team.
It might be questionable timing, as many believed waiting until their London game in Week 7 against the Jaguars might have been a safer bet. But it's clear the Patriots are hoping this will be the necessary change to make them a more competitive team moving forward.
It was always a question of when it would be decided rather than if, which has continued to be the reporting of league insiders since the season began. Now that they have accrued a 1-4 record going into October, it makes sense why the decision was made for Maye to take over now.
It will be interesting to hear how the team responds, as rumors have circulated suggesting there was some turmoil in the locker room regarding the Patriots' hesitancy to bench Jacoby Brissett.
Hopefully, it will be a decision that doesn't further create chaos with the roster because that's the last thing they need right now amidst the piling up of injuries and drama that has remained a topic of discussion.