What Jacoby Brissett Told Drake Maye After Veteran Benched By Patriots

New England Patriots rookie Drake Maye was excited for his personal milestone, but was quick to show compassion for veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett.

“I think the biggest thing is you hate it for him,” Maye said shortly after Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo confirmed the third overall pick would replace Brissett as the team’s starting quarterback.

Brissett spoke to reporters at Gillette Stadium on Thursday and provided detail on his conversations with Maye.

“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,'” Brissett told reporters, per ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “I can take care of myself. Obviously appreciated that, but I’ll be all right.”

When asked what that says about Maye, Brissett responded: “Great kid. Great kid. No malice in my heart towards him. I just want the best for him. I’m very excited for him.”

Brissett confirmed he was there to support Maye, despite the fact it was “tough” for him personally to be benched. New England signed Brissett to a one-year deal last offseason because the franchise felt like he could both start and serve as a mentor to Maye.

Brissett offered simple advice to Maye ahead of his debut.

“Play well,” Brissett said.

Maye and the Patriots will host the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on Sunday afternoon.