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Drake Maye Faces Heightened Scrutiny After Three-Interception Opener

The loss has spotlighted decision-making and depth issues that New England must address before its Week 2 home game.

Overview

  • Maye threw three interceptions and posted a 54.9 passer rating in a 13-10 loss at Lumen Field on Sept. 9, a performance that ended with a late pick that sealed the game.
  • He publicly said his impatience cost the Patriots and the tape shows he was sharp on throws under 10 air yards but went 3-of-8 on throws of 10+ air yards that produced all three interceptions.
  • A longtime NFL personnel executive and other league evaluators have expressed skepticism about Maye’s form and flagged roster weaknesses at tackle, along the defensive line, and among downfield playmakers.
  • AJ Brown suffered an ankle injury in Week 1 and is expected to miss multiple weeks, so the Patriots plan quicker reads and to redistribute targets to Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Hunter Henry and the run game.
  • Sunday’s game versus the Steelers presents a different defensive test — Pittsburgh generated heavy pressure and limited passing in Week 1 — and New England will be judged on Maye’s decision-making and the staff’s tactical changes.