Patriots QB Drake Maye Made First NFL Start With Heavy Heart

Patriots rookie Drake Maye experienced a whirlwind of emotions this past weekend.

Maye saw one of his lifelong dreams realized when he made his first NFL start Sunday in New England’s Week 6 matchup with Houston. But one day before impressing with three touchdown passes at Gillette Stadium, Maye and the North Carolina community were dealt a heartbreaking loss.

Tylee Craft, a former Tar Heels wide receiver, died Saturday following a battle with Stage 4 lung cancer. Craft was 23 years old.

Maye honored his fellow UNC alum on the eve of his first NFL start, sharing a photo of Craft to his Instagram story with a caption that read, “Love you man. RIP.”

The No. 3 overall pick managed to compartmentalize his wide range of emotions Sunday and put forth a very solid first impression. Maye appeared to provide the Patriots offense with a spark the unit had been looking for and in turn inspired optimism for the group going forward.

Maye is set to make his next start Sunday when the Patriots visit the reeling Jacksonville Jaguars for a Week 7 matchup at London’s Wembley Stadium. Kickoff for the international contest is set for 9:30 a.m. ET.