Jerod Mayo says not to read into Drake Maye’s spot as Patriots No. 2 QB
FOXBORO — Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye completed another practice in front of reporters working as the team’s second-string quarterback on Monday.
Maye worked behind “starter” Jacoby Brissett and in front of reserve Bailey Zappe and rookie Joe Milton III during team drills on Monday. Head coach Jerod Mayo urged not to read into it.
“No, not at all. I think I talked about this a little bit last week. The depth charts, there really are no depth charts. I mean, we can say the first group, the second group. We’re trying to mix and match offensively and defensively just to see what combinations work,” Mayo said. “And honestly, still trying to see where your depth is. And so on a depth chart, it’s like, all right, he’s a right tackle. But let’s see if we can move him here, different combinations. That’s part of the whole process.”
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Maye impressed Monday, however, completing 18-of-23 passes in competitive drills. Veteran players have been encouraged by his progress.
“Oh, definitely. Tremendously, man. Every day, he’s gotten better,” veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett said. “The good thing about it is it’s not like, ‘I’ve got it right now and I’m not thinking about it.’ He’s constantly trying to find ways to get better. He’s making some nice throws out there, and you’re seeing it progressing. …
“He’s made tremendous strides not only calling the plays, footwork, throwing the ball and his overall understanding of this offense.”
Running back Rhamondre Stevenson has seen Maye make progress calling plays in the huddle. Tight end Hunter Henry, who was close with former Patriots quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham and Mac Jones, has liked what he’s seen from Maye on a personal level.
“He’s done a great job ever since he stepped in the building. I think he’s only been here a month. He works really hard, he’s got a great attitude. He’s good in the locker room,” Henry said. “I think he’s really listening and taking the coaching and applying it to the field too. So, he’s a fun guy to be around.”