Jayden Daniels’ Performance Had Patriots Fans Asking One Question

“When will we get to see Drake Maye?”

It might have been the most common question asked in New England households Monday night as Jayden Daniels’ historic primetime debut propelled the Washington Commanders over the Cincinnati Bengals. It certainly was the most popular talk radio storyline Tuesday.

Daniels, who was drafted one pick before Maye, accounted for more touchdowns (three) than incompletions (two) and set an NFL record for best completion percentage by a rookie.

“It makes me want our guy to play more,” well-known Patriots broadcaster Scott Zolak said on 98.5 The Sports Hub’s “Zolak & Bertrand” program.

Meanwhile, Maye has held a clipboard for the Patriots.

The 2024 third-overall pick made his regular-season debut Thursday night when he replaced veteran starter Jacoby Brissett in garbage time. Maye was sacked twice by the New York Jets and nearly had his first regular-season pass intercepted over four-plus minutes of action. However, the North Carolina product also led a 16-play drive into the red zone and picked up key first downs on a layered throw to DeMario Douglas and a fourth-down scramble.

Those plays were enough for the “Start Drake” crowd. And the success of Daniels a few nights later likely helped it grow in numbers.

There is some nuance in the debate, though. The performances of Chicago Bears’ top pick Caleb Williams and Indianapolis Colts second-year QB Anthony Richardson prove it’s not cut and dry. Each situation is different and should be treated as such.

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The 23-year-old Daniels played 55 college games and was thought to be more pro-ready than Maye ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. It was expected that Daniels’ polished throwing mechanics and dual-threat ability would allow him to find success early. Was it expected he would complete 80.3% of his passes through three weeks? Well, no. But that might say something about the situation he’s in with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, talented wideout Terry McLaurin and an offensive line that ranks 10th in pass-block grade, per Pro Football Focus.

The freshly 22-year-old Maye, who played 30 college games, was viewed as a developmental prospect with a higher ceiling. Many believed Maye would benefit from time and some analysts expressed he should not play the full 2024 season. Maye’s improvements have quieted those red-shirt talks a bit, but the “Sit Drake” crowd remains steadfast in the belief the Patriots are not ready for Maye. The team can’t support him, evidenced by the fact New England ranks 28th in pass-block grade.

“When will we get to see Drake Maye?”

There’s a good chance that question will become even more common in the next few weeks.