Throughout the spring, summer, and now fall, the New England Patriots have faced the same repeated question: When will Drake Maye become the starting quarterback?
Despite this, head coach Jerod Mayo and the team have continued to stand by veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who was named the starter before Week 1. However, with each loss, Mayo’s stance on a potential quarterback change grows more significant.
On Sunday, the Patriots suffered their third consecutive defeat, dropping to 1-3 for the season. As a result, many fans are now demanding a change.
“At this point, Jacoby is our starting quarterback,” Mayo said. “I haven’t reviewed the film yet. He’s been a great leader. After I addressed the team, he broke the huddle. We’ve got a long flight back to watch the film, and we’re always evaluating every position.”
Brissett has faced a tough return to the Patriots, enduring hit after hit, largely due to problems with the offensive line. New England has had to start four different tackles in four games, and center David Andrews also left Sunday’s game with an injury.
Despite the physical toll, Brissett continues to bounce back after every hit.
“What I’ll say about Jacoby is that he’s incredibly tough, both mentally and physically,” Mayo said. “He’s taken some massive hits and keeps getting up. Sometimes you wonder, ‘Is he okay?’ But he’s tough, and I’d never describe him as ‘skittish.’”
During Week 3’s loss to the Jets, Mayo substituted Maye in for the final drive. Was that an option this week?
“No thoughts on that today,” Mayo responded.
Brissett has earned widespread respect in the locker room for his toughness. Earlier in the week, tight end Austin Hooper referred to him as a “tough SOB,” and after Sunday’s loss, Hunter Henry added, “Jacoby’s a warrior, standing back there and taking those hits. Love playing with him.”
Maye wasn’t expected to remain sidelined all season, with plans for him to eventually replace Brissett. Mayo did note they still need to “watch the film,” and that “every position is always under evaluation.” So, a timeline shift could be coming soon.
