Jerod Mayo starts timer for Patriots' QB1 decision among Drake Maye, Joe Milton, and Jacoby Brissett

New England Patriots coach Jerod Mayo has given some insight on his team's quarterback competition. The Patriots currently have four quarterbacks on the roster: first-round draft pick Drake Maye, third-round draft pick Joe Milton III, veteran Jacoby Brissett and 2022 draft pick Bailey Zappe.

Mayo told reporters on Wednesday afternoon that a decision will be made by Monday. While the first-year head coach said the decision is near, he also gave insight into who the front-runner may be. Mayo stated that veteran Jacoby Brissett is currently "QB1" ahead of the final preseason game.

“It’s still a competition and Jacoby (Brissett) is still QB1.”

During the same press conference, Mayo also expressed his confidence in the rookie Drake Maye.

When asked if he would be comfortable starting Maye against the Cincinnati Bengals, Mayo said that he is "100% ready" to do so.

“100 percent, I think he’s ready to run a huddle," Jerod Mayo said about Drake Maye.

Whether New England decides to start the rookie quarterback or give him more time to develop will be seen in the coming days.

Drake Maye made a case for starting role in second Patriots preseason game

Jerod Mayo has leaned towards Jacoby Brissett being the starting quarterback in Week 1. However, rookie Drake Maye's performance last week kept him in the competition.

Despite the New England Patriots' 14-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last week, Maye went 6 of 11 with 47 yards and a touchdown run. Brissett didn't have as good of an outing, as he went just 3 for 17 with just 17 yards and an interception.

Although two short outings don't completely decide who will get the starting role, Maye's ability to make plays and score with his legs shows his versatility.

As for Brissett, this is his second stint with the New England Patriots. He previously played with the team when he was drafted in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

After just one season, he was traded to the Indianapolis Colts where he played four seasons. He has since played for the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns and most recently, the Washington Commanders.