Mayo: Patriots undecided on Week 1 starting QB
New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo said he still doesn't know who'll be the starting quarterback when they open the regular season against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sept. 8.
"We have another preseason game, and then a week after that. When I know, I'll let you know," Mayo said Monday.
Drake Maye continues to make progress as he prepares for his rookie season. The North Carolina product led New England's offense to 10 points, including a rushing touchdown, while playing 25 snaps against the Philadelphia Eagles in exhibition play last week. Mayo said the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft has impressed him with his dedication and development since joining the franchise.
"I think it's attributed to his hard work, his dedication to his craft," Mayo said. "This guy comes in early, leaves late. Every day, he's one of those type of guys, and he's done a great job. I would also say the coaches have done a good job meeting with him one-on-one, making sure that he's comfortable with his team play. He's absolutely getting better."
Mayo highlighted Maye's throws during Monday's practice and said that the rookie's teammates are noticing his growing confidence.
"Hopefully, it's just an upward trajectory from here," Mayo said.
Jacoby Brissett has been taking most of the first-team reps during training camp. The 31-year-old passer has started 48 games in his career, suiting up for five different clubs through eight seasons.
"Every day, I'm coming out here trying to do my best," Brissett said, according to the Boston Herald's Doug Kyed. "It don't matter if it's Day 1 or Day 39. I'm still going out there trying to do my best. I don't really worry about the competition. I'm more so just worried about myself and being a good teammate ... I still treat myself as if I'm the starter."
The Patriots remain one of the few teams yet to name a starter ahead of the final week of preseason. The Las Vegas Raiders recently named Gardner Minshew their starter, while the Washington Commanders confirmed that rookie Jayden Daniels will get the starting nod in Week 1.