Drake Maye proves to be a class act while Patriots QBs are adapting to new roles

FOXBOROUGH, Mass - It was always expected that rookie quarterback Drake Maye was going to start at some point during the 2024 season. So because of that, it put Jacoby Brissett in a very tough position.

There was no direct timeline for when the switch was going to be made, but after losing four out of the first five games this year, head coach Jerod Mayo decided the time was now.

Brissett was justifiably upset about losing his starting job, but he didn't blame Maye at all. And the rookie even checked in with the veteran when the decision was made.

“I told somebody this the other day, ‘I’ve been through harder things in my life. I’m sure this won’t be the last time I go through something hard," Brissett told reporters on Thursday. "So, I’ll be all right,’”

“Drake asked me how I’m doing and I’m like ‘Man, if you’re worried about me, you’re worried about the wrong thing right now.’ I can take care of myself. I obviously appreciated that, but I’ll be all right.”

It's clear the respect that Maye has for his mentor on the team, and Brissett feels the same way.

“Great kid. Great kid. No malice in my heart toward him,” he added. “I just want the best for him. I’m very excited for him.”

And with that, it was also a big of déjà vu for Brissett, considering his first NFL start also came against the Texans in 2016. He led the team to a 27-0 victory so hopefully Maye will have the same luck on Sunday.

So what's his advice for the rookie?

“Play well.”