Patriots' Mayo: Brissett QB1 front-runner, door still open for Maye
New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo labeled quarterback Jacoby Brissett as the front-runner for the starting signal-caller job but left the door open for rookie Drake Maye to pass him in camp.
"Coming out of the spring, I don't think there is any doubt Jacoby is the starting quarterback at this point in time," Mayo told reporters Tuesday. "I think it's clear Jacoby is the most pro-ready guy."
When asked if there's a world where Maye wins the starting gig, Mayo added: "If (Maye) comes out here and lights it up ... it could absolutely happen."
New England signed Brissett to a one-year, $8-million deal in March. The 31-year-old spent last season in Washington, completing 18 of 23 passes for 224 yards and three touchdowns in three contests. Brissett started 11 games with the Browns in 2022, totaling a 4-7 record with 2,608 passing yards and ranking 10th in EPA/play among quarterbacks who played 300 snaps.
Maye was selected third overall by the Patriots in April's draft. The North Carolina product started 26 games from 2022-23, racking up 7,929 passing yards with 62 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.
"The goal for Drake is to get better each and every day," Mayo said. "And it's not a straight line up to the top; there will be ups and downs. ... If he comes out here, takes full advantage, and lights it up, he could be the Day 1 quarterback."
New England is transitioning as Mayo replaces longtime head coach Bill Belichick. The club has the most cap space in the league and is projected to have the second highest in 2025, per Over The Cap.
"It would be great to get up here and say 'we're gonna win a Super Bowl,' but once again, it's about the process," Mayo said.