In a whirlwind of uncertainty and speculation, the New England Patriots are still keeping their fans on the edge of their seats when it comes to who will be under center for Week One of the NFL season. Although Jacoby Brissett has not been officially anointed as the starting quarterback for the Patriots, it seems like he may have the inside track.
After the preseason finale, head coach Jerod Mayo hinted that Brissett will likely get the nod over Drake Maye. When asked about Maye potentially stepping in after Brissett’s shoulder injury, Mayo expressed confidence in Maye but was clear that he views him as the backup.
“He’s our second-best quarterback on our roster right now,” Mayo affirmed.
Despite Brissett’s shoulder issue, Mayo revealed that the plan was always to take him out after the first possession of the preseason finale. “That was the plan,” Mayo confirmed. “He would’ve been able to continue.”
Mayo was complimentary of Maye’s performance throughout the preseason, emphasizing that the best player to lead the Patriots against the Bengals will get the starting job. “The best players are going to play. Whether it’s at quarterback or offensive line, it doesn’t matter, we’re going to play the best players,” Mayo declared.
The anticipation is mounting as Mayo indicated that a decision on the starting quarterback position is expected by Monday night. However, Mayo added a disclaimer, saying, “I reserve the right to change my mind.”
The Patriots faithful will have to wait a little longer to see who will be leading their team onto the field in Week One, but one thing is for sure – the quarterback competition in New England is as intense as ever.