Drake Maye, the former quarterback for the University of North Carolina, had an impressive performance in the NFL recently. In a game against the Buffalo Bills, Maye led the New England Patriots to a thrilling 23-20 victory. He completed 22 out of 30 passes, accumulating 273 yards and achieving a passer rating of 101.1.
UNC and Drake Maye: An Unusual Silence
Despite his accomplishments, the UNC football program has noticeably refrained from celebrating Maye’s success on social media. An investigation by 247Sports revealed that the silence is due to a directive from UNC head coach Bill Belichick. Reports indicate that Belichick instructed the team to avoid tweeting or retweeting any content related to the Patriots.
Belichick’s Tenure and Reputation
Bill Belichick coached the New England Patriots for an incredible 24 seasons, from 2000 to 2024. During this time, he led the team to six Super Bowl victories. However, after back-to-back disappointing seasons, he was let go in early 2024. This history complicates his recent actions regarding social media engagement with UNC and Maye.
Contrasting Responses from the UNC Program
The decision by UNC to not post anything about Maye stands in stark contrast to their praise for other alumni. For instance, they shared multiple highlights of former running back Javontae Williams, who scored touchdowns with the Dallas Cowboys on the same day as Maye’s victory.
Mack Brown’s Support
Former UNC head coach Mack Brown publicly congratulated Maye for his impressive performance. He expressed his happiness for Maye and recalled his successful moments at Carolina. Brown’s acknowledgment highlights a supportive sentiment that seems to be muted by the current head coach’s directive.
Delayed Recognition from the Program
After the media attention on Maye’s stellar game, UNC football eventually posted a highlight recognizing one of his plays. However, many perceived this gesture as inadequate, merely a response to public pressure.
Ongoing Tensions Between Kraft and Belichick
The relationship between Belichick and Patriots owner Robert Kraft has been strained since their mutual parting in January 2024. Although both had positive interactions at events, Kraft’s previous remarks about firing Belichick added to the tension. Belichick has also made sharp comments directed at Kraft and his family while limiting Patriots scouts’ evaluations of UNC players, showing ongoing friction.
The current scenario surrounding Drake Maye and UNC illustrates a complex intertwining of loyalty, recognition, and the legacy of coaching figures like Belichick. The situation raises questions about how sports programs celebrate alumni, especially those excelling in professional leagues.
