Patriots to Start Rookie QB Drake Maye in Season Finale Against Bills

Head coach Jerod Mayo emphasizes focus on winning despite potential No. 1 draft pick implications.

The New England Patriots, currently 3-13, will face the Buffalo Bills in their final game of the season with rookie quarterback Drake Maye starting if healthy.
Maye, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has been a bright spot in a challenging season for the Patriots and is eager to compete in the finale.
Head coach Jerod Mayo has dismissed the idea of prioritizing draft positioning, stating the team is focused on finishing the season strong and building momentum for the future.
A loss to the Bills would guarantee the Patriots the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, while a win could drop them out of the top four picks.
The Bills, already locked into the No. 2 AFC playoff seed, plan to start Josh Allen but will rest him and other key players after limited game time.