When it comes to rookie quarterback Drake Maye, former New England Patriots running back James White thinks the team could take a lesson from the Carolina Panthers and Bryce Young situation.
Young, the No. 1 overall pick of the 2022 NFL draft, is being benched for Andy Dalton after throwing for 84 yards and one interception in a 26-3 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 2.
It’s been a rough start to the Alabama product’s career, as he has recorded 3,122 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in two NFL seasons. He has a quarterback rating of 70.9 and a rating of 44.1 this year.
Jacoby Brissett is currently the starting quarterback for the Patriots until Maye, the No. 3 pick of the 2024 NFL draft, is ready to take the mantle.
However, the most feared scenario for the Patriots is starting Maye before he is ready and having to turn back to Brissett down the line. White recognizes how delicate the decision is for the organization’s future as a whole.
“I just feel like they set (Bryce) up to fail,” said White, when appearing on “The Money Down Podcast.” “I say over and over again. I know guys get drafted No. 1 overall. There’s a lot of hype around them. You’re excited to put those guys on the field. But I don’t care, man.
“Get you a veteran. Get somebody who can play at least a few games throughout the year. Let these guys watch and learn and compete in practice until they are ready to play. …This is why we don’t throw Drake Maye out here early on.”
The benching of Bryce Young is another great example of why these young quarterbacks need to develop before you name them the starter. pic.twitter.com/NMLlWR8iKc
— The Money Down (@Themoneydownpod) September 17, 2024
The Patriots offense is still a work in progress with the offensive line struggling and the new receivers still trying to gel with the quarterback. All of these combined with other uncertain factors could be a recipe for disaster for a rookie quarterback.
The Patriots might be wise to sit Maye just a little bit longer.