What happened to Drake Maye? Patriots QB heads to medical tent after shot to head

New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye exited Saturday's game against the LA Chargers. This came after absorbing a helmet-to-helmet hit from cornerback Cam Hart. The third overall pick scrambled out of bounds during a third-and-4 play of his team's opening drive.

The collision left Maye down before going to the sideline. Medical staff quickly escorted him to the blue tent for evaluation. Minutes later, he headed to the locker room for additional assessment.

The Patriots listed Drake Maye as questionable to return with a head injury. Before his exit, the rookie completed his only pass attempt for one yard. Veteran backup Jacoby Brissett took over under center as the Chargers built an early 7-0 lead via a spectacular Derius Davis touchdown catch.

NFL: Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots - Source: Imagn

This marks Drake Maye's second head injury of the season. He previously entered concussion protocol in Week 8 against the New York Jets after a hard hit from safety Jamien Sherwood during an 18-yard scramble.

Officials drew criticism for not penalizing Hart's hit, which involved contact to Maye's head and neck area. Their explanation centered on Hart not leading with the crown of his helmet.

Drake Maye's second head injury raises concerns for the Patriots' future

NFL: Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots - Source: Imagn

The timing puts Maye's promising rookie campaign in jeopardy. Through 11 games, he has thrown for 2,159 yards with 14 TDs and 10 interceptions. His dual-threat ability has added 389 rushing yards and two scores on the ground.

In the Week 8 incident against New York, Maye initially stayed in for several plays after Sherwood's hit. He managed a first-down run and handled multiple snaps before heading to the medical tent. He cleared protocols to return during Week 9's narrow loss to Tennessee.

The rookie has emerged as New England's offensive spark despite limited weapons and coaching experience around him. His 67.6% completion rate showcases the accuracy and poise that made him this year's third overall selection.

The Patriots face a crucial decision about their franchise QB after extinguishing playoff hopes. Rushing him back holds little benefit, particularly given his previous concussion this season. Brissett's earlier struggles at QB underscore Maye's importance to the team's future.

The offense's effectiveness dipped noticeably during Brissett's previous stint as a starter. This latest injury not only impacts New England's immediate game plan against LA but could also affect their approach to the season finale.