Mayo Sticks with Brissett as Patriots QB, Downplays Maye's Debut

After one preseason appearance, quarterback Drake Maye's debut for the New England Patriots was met with calls for him to start over Jacoby Brissett. However, head coach Jerod Mayo has made it clear that Brissett remains the starting quarterback.

New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo has declared that Jacoby Brissett will remain the team's starting quarterback, despite calls for third overall pick Drake Maye to take over.

Maye, highly touted coming into the NFL, completed four passes for 22 yards in his regular-season debut against the New York Jets on Thursday, but the Patriots suffered a 24-3 loss.

Mayo Sticks with Brissett as Patriots QB, Downplays Maye's Debut

Despite the disappointing performance, Mayo expressed confidence in Brissett, who finished with 98 passing yards and was sacked five times.

"Jacoby is our quarterback until I say he is not the quarterback," Mayo said. "I thought he showed a lot of toughness, a lot of grit."

Mayo Sticks with Brissett as Patriots QB, Downplays Maye's Debut

Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt concurred with Mayo's decision, emphasizing the need for Maye to gain more experience as a backup.

"I still think it's by watching. I think there's a lot to be learned yet," Van Pelt said. "Jacoby is our starter... Until that changes, I think we got to do everything we can to get the starter ready to win a game."

Mayo Sticks with Brissett as Patriots QB, Downplays Maye's Debut

Mayo acknowledged the challenges that Maye faced entering the game midway through the fourth quarter.

"Coming off the bench at that time is always tough... And I thought he handled himself well and tried to put a drive together," Mayo said. "It's something to build off."

The Patriots, now 0-1, will face a tough test against the San Francisco 49ers on the road next week. Brissett will be tasked with leading the offense in a crucial matchup.

- Maye entered the NFL as the third overall pick in the 2024 draft.

- The Patriots entered the game against the Jets with a depleted offensive line.

- Maye was unable to make an impact after entering the game in the fourth quarter.

- Mayo emphasized the importance of giving Brissett time to adjust to the offense.

- The Patriots hope that Maye can continue to develop as a backup quarterback.