Drake Maye is making waves in the NFL as he drives the downfield passing attack for the Patriots in 2025. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Maye has rejuvenated the Patriots’ aerial game, bringing back memories of the franchise’s glory days with quarterbacks like Tom Brady.
Drake Maye’s Performance Highlights
In a recent game, Maye showcased his skills, averaging an impressive 9.1 yards per attempt. He completed 22 out of 32 passes, including significant connections with Stefon Diggs and Hunter Henry. Diggs praised Maye’s leadership, emphasizing the quarterback’s ability to guide the team effectively in challenging conditions.
Key Statistics
- Maye ranks fifth in the NFL for yards per attempt at 8.24.
- He holds the second spot in completion percentage at 73.9%.
- Maye has thrown 16 passes of 20 or more yards, tied for sixth-most in the league.
- He has a remarkable 118.8 rating on passes of 20-plus yards, ranking seventh overall.
- Maye’s Expected Points Added (EPA) places him sixth per play this season.
Revitalized Downfield Attack
Historically, the Patriots struggled with long passes, finishing 31st in completions of over 20 yards during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. However, with Maye at the helm, significant progress has been made. He has completed a staggering 54 passes of 20 yards or more this season, a marked improvement from 34 in the previous year.
Game-Changing Plays
Throughout the season, Maye has consistently connected on crucial third-down plays, demonstrating his versatility. He executes passes effectively in various situations, whether standing in the pocket, scrambling, or under pressure. His ability to make big plays has been pivotal in tight games.
Historic Comparisons
Drake Maye’s start to the season is among the best in Patriots history. Only a handful of quarterbacks, including Tom Brady and Drew Bledsoe, achieved similar success in their opening games regarding yards per attempt. This trend highlights Maye’s potential to lead the Patriots back to their offensive prominence.
Looking Ahead
As the Patriots continue their season in 2025, expectations are high for Maye. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can maintain this level of performance and further establish the Patriots as a legitimate threat in the league. With Maye’s growing confidence and McDaniels’ innovative strategies, the future looks promising for New England’s downfield passing attack.
