New Patriots HC Mike Vrabel dissects Drake Maye's potential after QB's sensational rookie season

After a tough season under Jerod Mayo, Drake Maye and the New England Patriots have a new head coach in Mike Vrabel. The former Tennessee Titans head coach spent eight years with the franchise as a player and won three Super Bowls.

He was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2023 and was touted as Bill Belichick's replacement before the team surprisingly picked Mayo, only to fire him after one season. While most fans are excited about the team landing the franchise icon, some wanted the team to hire Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as the new head coach to help Maye fulfill his potential.

Vrabel is primarily a defensive coach, which some fans believe isn't optimal for the quarterback's development. However, during a chat with reporters after his introductory press conference, the new head coach made it clear that Drake Maye's growth as a player will be a point of emphasis for him:

"Drake's got extreme potential. But you know, there's going to be some things that we're going to have to talk about, as far as taking care of the football and taking care of himself right and sideline and at the sticks and all that other stuff, and making sure he's in the middle of the field that, you know, that he gets down and protects himself and protects the equipment."

Vrabel expressed complete faith in the 22-year-old's ability and claimed he was on the brink of stardom. He added:

"But also that he's got the skill set and he's dynamic in his personality and his leadership, and, you know, his arm talent, you know, make great decisions and learn and command the offense. It'll be critical that he grows into this second year. And I know that he will."

Drake Maye stats: QB's promising rookie season

Drake Maye was the only reason why many Patriots fans tuned in to watch the team during their dismal 2024 campaign. Despite playing behind what was statistically, the fourth-worst O-line in the league and an underwhelming receiving unit, the quarterback showcased glimpses of superstar potential.

He started 12 games and finished with 2,254 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He also rushed for 421 yards, despite the Patriots' coaching staff not calling any designed run plays and letting the rookie rely on his instinct on when to take off as a runner with the ball in his hands.

Drake Maye's performance in dire straits filled Patriots fans with hope and many believe he's the heir to Tom Brady. New head coach Mike Vrabel has a quarterback with superstar potential on his hands and it remains to be seen whether he can mold him into one.