Drake Maye injury update: Latest on Patriots QB's status for Fantasy Football Week 18

New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye will start against the Buffalo Bills in Week 18, pending his health status. Coach Jerod Mayo confirmed this decision during Wednesday's press conference in Foxborough.

Maye briefly left Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers after taking a hit to the helmet. The rookie quarterback underwent concussion protocol evaluation but later returned to action.

"Drake is our starting quarterback. If he's healthy and ready to go, as we go through this week of practice, then he'll play," Mayo said.

The Patriots' coach emphasized his team's intent to end the season on a high note.

The third-overall pick expressed confidence about his status for Sunday's matchup.

"I'm preparing like I'm the starter. I'm looking forward to being out there. I'm ready to go out there and win and compete," Maye said on Wednesday.

Fantasy managers should note that the Bills rank 22nd against the pass, allowing 225.7 yards per game. Buffalo plans to rest several starters, including quarterback Josh Allen, after securing the AFC's No. 2 seed.

Breaking down Drake Maye's Week 18 fantasy potential

NFL: Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots (Image Source: Imagn)

The rookie quarterback has posted solid fantasy numbers lately. Over his past five games, Drake Maye accumulated 77.7 fantasy points (15.5 per game), completing 99 of 148 passes for 1,040 yards and six touchdowns.

His season-best performance came in Week 7 against Jacksonville, where he scored 20.8 fantasy points. Maye completed 70.3% of his passes for 276 yards and two touchdowns in that game.

The Bills' defense has shown vulnerability this season. They've allowed three quarterbacks to surpass 300 passing yards and nine players to throw multiple touchdowns in a single game.

For the 2024 season, Maye ranks 21st among quarterbacks with 177.1 fantasy points (14.8 per game). He's thrown for 2,276 yards with 15 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, adding two rushing scores.

The Patriots (3-13) face an interesting scenario. A loss would secure the first overall pick in next year's draft. However, Mayo stressed the importance of building momentum.

"I've never been part of a team as a player or as a coach going into a game not wanting to win," Mayo said.

For fantasy managers seeking Week 18 options, Maye presents an intriguing QB2 play. His recent production and a favorable matchup against Buffalo's second-string defense offer upside potential in the season's final week.