Drake Maye didn't begin his rookie NFL season as the New England Patriots' starter, but ended his rookie season as a clear-cut franchise quarterback.
New England continued to struggle in the post Tom-Brady era during its 2024-2025 campaign: missing the playoffs for a third-straight season, plus finishing 4-13 and in the AFC East cellar for a second-straight year. Jacoby Brissett was largely ineffective in five weeks as the Pats starter, forcing Jerod Mayo to start his rookie from UNC.
Maye finished his rookie season with 2,276 passing yards, 15 passing touchdowns and 10 interceptions, plus Maye added 421 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground, showcasing his dual-threat ability.