Jerod Mayo has indicated Drake Mayo has what it takes to lead the New England Patriots, when the time is right .
In the Patriots' second preseason matchup, this time against the Philadelphia Eagles, Maye showcased his ability , completing 6 of 11 pass attempts for 47 yards in 24 snaps. He also added 15 rushing yards including a four-yard touchdown run in the one-point loss to the Eagles.
Speaking to reporters Wednesday, the Patriots head coach explained what he saw in Maye's showing, along with giving a prediction of what could happen in the season . In particular, Mayo lauded the rookie's ability to lead the team, even though it was just a preseason game.
"100 percent, I think he's ready to run a huddle," Mayo said of Maye's demeanor so far in preseason, per the New York Post . Additionally, New England's head coach made sure to clarify who is still the top choice among the signal callers the team has on its roster.
"You come into camp, and you want to have an idea of how it's going," Mayo continued. "It's still a competition, and Jacoby (Brissett) is still QB1. It's a competition amongst all the guys on the field, including the quarterback spot. I think anyone can see the confidence growing in Drake. Anyone can see Jacoby go out here and, as a total body of work, do a good job. So, we'll see how it goes."
Even though Brissett is tabbed as the team's first option, Mayo noted that nothing is set in stone yet as the team prepares for its final preseason matchup against the Washington Commanders. Mayo even declared that a new signal caller might be tabbed to start the season after each preseason game has been evaluated.
"I would say by Monday night, we should know who the quarterback is," the head coach added. "Sunday night game, it's always hard to crank through the film. Especially on the road. But I think Monday-Tuesday we'll probably know who it is. Now, that doesn't mean I'll tell you who it is."
Despite praising how Maye has played, Mayo is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding who will be starting for New England. "He had great composure," the rookie head coach said of the No. 3 overall draft pick in the 2024 NFL Draft . "I thought it was a good drive. I thought he went out there and did a lot of good things, so hopefully he can build on that, and we'll see how this week goes.
"This goes to any position, if he comes out here and lights it up - and once again it goes back to the quality of reps - it could absolutely happen. Jacoby (right now) looks like the starting quarterback.
"Now, with that being said, he'll have competition. Let's not forget about even Joe Milton, let's not forget about Zappe. All of those guys will go out there and have opportunities to be the starting quarterback in Week 1."
Though Mayo still has not locked in who will be starting the season under center , the head coach could have tipped his hand with his comments on Maye. The Patriots' season begins with a matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals on September 8.
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