The New England Patriots began their season with Jacoby Brissett as starting quarterback, but after ineffective play through five weeks, New England turned to highly-touted rookie Drake Maye,
This was a smart move by the Patriots, as their third overall pick threw for 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in his rookie season. Despite Maye's solid play, New England finished last in the AFC East and fired Jerod Mayo as head coach.
With Mayo out, the Patriots had one goal in mind: find a leader who could work with their star rookie out of North Carolina.