The New England Patriots’ offensive struggles have taken another turn — and this time, rookie quarterback Drake Maye finds himself at the center of the storm. Through nine weeks of the NFL season, no team has had more tipped or deflected passes at the line of scrimmage than New England, raising concerns about Maye’s throwing mechanics and the team’s offensive design.
According to team and league data, the Patriots have had 14 passes tipped — a number that not only stalls drives but has also led to two costly interceptions. While part of the blame lies with an inconsistent offensive line, many analysts believe Maye’s release angle and timing are contributing factors.
At 6-foot-4, Maye doesn’t lack height, but scouts have noted that his delivery can be somewhat flat, making it easier for defensive linemen to read and disrupt his passes. Former Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel commented on the issue, saying, “It’s about finding those throwing lanes and adjusting arm angles. You can’t keep firing the same trajectory in this league — defenders are too smart.”
Head coach Jerod Mayo defended his rookie signal-caller after Sunday’s loss, emphasizing that tipped passes are “a collective issue.” “It’s not just Drake,” Mayo said. “Protection, timing, spacing — it all plays a role. We’ve got to do a better job as an offense.”
Still, critics point to a worrying trend. Maye’s quick decision-making, a strength during his college career at North Carolina, seems hampered by the Patriots’ inconsistent receiver separation and collapsing pockets. The result: rushed throws, predictable windows, and an ever-growing stack of deflections.
Despite the criticism, Maye remains confident. “I just have to keep learning,” he told reporters. “It’s on me to adjust — get the ball out cleaner, change my arm angle, and help my guys make plays.”
The Patriots drafted Maye as their franchise quarterback of the future, but for now, the rookie’s development is being tested under pressure. If he can learn to adapt, the tipped passes will fade as growing pains. If not, they could become a symbol of New England’s continued offensive frustration.
Leave a Reply