What Does Successful Debut Look Like For Patriots, Drake Maye?

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye.

It's finally a reality.

Maye has taken the field at Gillette Stadium before, but Thursday will mark the very first time he does so in that extremely boring mono-blue uniform. It's the first time he'll play in front of an NFL crowd, against NFL competition, with NFL teammates. It's an opportunity to show why he was chosen with the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

How can he turn that moment into a success? What will the Patriots be looking for? How much importance does a preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers really have? Let's discuss:

Play Loose

Maye's biggest attribute at this point in his development is his play-making ability. He can move extremely well, and in comparison to the other guys in his position room, he's the best at making off-schedule plays.

Let's see some of that against the Panthers.

Carolina's going to run extremely basic coverages, because... you know... it's the preseason. Maye should have plenty of opportunity to show off his arm, and when he's out on the field with Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker he should absolutely let it fly. He should also have a couple chances to run with it, and as long as he makes smart decisions, there's no reason not to show off the legs.

Stay Healthy

It's perfectly fine to slide, Drake.

Maye could throw seven interceptions and it wouldn't be the end of the world. If he goes out there and suffers any sort of injury that will hinder his ability to practice? DISASTER. The Patriots can't afford to have him sidelined for any amount of time, so if that offensive line breaks down, and we know it will, the 21-year-old needs to make smart decisions -- throw it away, take off and slide as early as you possibly can, take a damn knee, etc.

Command The Offense

Jacoby Brissett is going to start against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1, and that has almost everything to do with his command of the offense. Maye still seems to be one (or six) steps behind the veteran, but a huge step for him would be showing that he can run the show in a game setting.

Can he check into advantageous situations? Is he going to make the quick, timing-based throws? If he can, the Patriots should feel plenty confident moving forward.