Former North Carolina Tar Heels star Drake Maye has developed a very serious problem with the New England Patriots.
Former North Carolina Tar Heels star Drake Maye has enjoyed an absolutely tremendous sophomore NFL campaign with the New England Patriots.
Maye threw for 4,394 yards, 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions while completing 72 percent of his passes and posting a 113.5 passer rating during the regular season. He also rushed for 450 yards and four scores.
Not only did the 23-year-old lead the Patriots to an AFC East division title, but he has also guided them to an AFC Championship Game appearance all while being one of the two frontrunners for the MVP award, the other being Matthew Stafford.
However, in the midst of Maye's brilliant, he has developed a very serious problem: ball security. More specifically, fumbling.
The North Carolina product has fumbled six times in the playoffs and had fumbled 14 times overall this year, both of which lead the league. He has also lost six fumbles, three of which have come in the postseason.
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images."I've got to do a better job stepping up and hit guys downfield when we had chances. I have to be better with the football when I'm taking off and running," Maye said, via ESPN's Mike Reiss. "From there, just know the football is the prized possession. When we don't turn the ball over, and put the team in the best spots, I like our chances."
Maye went 16-for-27 with 179 yards, three touchdowns and an interception during New England's Divisional Round win over the Houston Texans, fumbling four times. He was also sacked five times, as his protection up front was rather shoddy.
"Obviously, I wish I had some plays back. That's part of playing good teams in the playoffs," added Maye.
It's true that playoff football is a different animal, but it should also be noted that Maye had issues holding on to the ball during his rookie campaign, as well, tossing 10 picks while registering nine fumbles in 12 starts.
There is no question that Maye is one of the most talented signal-callers in football, but he needs to rectify this issue before it ends up crippling his career.
Maye spent three years with the Tar Heels between 2021 and 2023 before being selected by the Patriots with the third overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft.
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