FOXBOROUGH,MA – New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye committed a costly turnover during a preseason game against the Carolina Panthers on Friday night,fumbling while attempting a pass under pressure.The mistake drew a pointed response from patriots head coach Mike Vrabel during his post-game press conference.
The play occured in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. While being sacked, Maye attempted to force a throw, resulting in a fumble. The Panthers were unable to capitalize with a touchdown, settling for a 49-yard field goal attempt by Matt Gay, which was missed wide left, preventing any points from the turnover.
Vrabel’s reaction to a reporter’s question about Maye’s performance quickly became a focal point. When asked about the turnover, Vrabel responded, “Are you asking and answering a question at the same time? is that what you’re doing?”
After a clarifying question, Vrabel stated, “I would say you about summed it up. That’s a bad decision. I think we’re going to need better from him. And I think he knows that. That’s obvious. It wasn’t there.We just have to be able to find a way to get rid of the football or take a sack and punt and play defense.”
The incident highlights the growing pains expected for a rookie quarterback.Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of the University of North Carolina, is being tasked with revitalizing a Patriots offense that has struggled since the departure of Tom Brady in 2020. The Patriots finished the 2023 season with a 4-13 record, their worst since 1992.
Vrabel, hired as the Patriots’ head coach in January 2024 after a prosperous six-year tenure with the Tennessee Titans, is known for his direct and often terse interaction style.His post-game comments reflect a clear expectation for betterment from Maye.
The fumble drew comparisons to a similar play attempted by New York Jets quarterback aaron Rodgers against the Buffalo Bills in Week 1 of the 2023 season, where Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury while attempting to avoid a sack.
While the Patriots ultimately avoided losing points on the play due to the missed field goal, Vrabel’s assessment underscores the importance of sound decision-making for Maye. Consistent turnovers of this nature could considerably hinder the Patriots’ efforts to return to contention in the AFC East.
