SMITHFIELD, R.I. — If the New England Patriots needed any more proof that Drake Maye has captured the attention — and the belief — of fans across the region, they got it last night.
The rookie quarterback walked into Bryant University’s MAC auditorium to a thunderous, unexpected chant from a packed crowd of students, faculty, and staff:
“M-V-P! M-V-P! M-V-P!”
The building shook. Maye paused, smiled, and briefly looked overwhelmed in the best way.
“I didn’t expect that,” he admitted, laughing once the room finally quieted. “That was pretty cool.”
Maye, just 23 years old, has quickly become both the on-field leader and the emotional heartbeat of a Patriots team currently riding a six-game winning streak, its longest since the 2021 season. For a franchise that has spent the past few years searching for a direction — and searching for a quarterback — the moment felt like a shift. Not hype. Not hope. But something real.
During the event, hosted by Bryant’s Student Programming Board, Maye spoke about adjusting to life in the NFL, staying grounded, and navigating pressure — something everyone in the auditorium understood in their own way.
“It’s cool to talk to people my own age,” Maye told the crowd. “I’m 23. I know what it’s like — I’ve been in the same position as y’all. It’s a stressful time in your life.”
He didn’t talk about celebrity. He didn’t talk about fame, highlight reels, or endorsements. Instead, he talked about support systems, and the people behind the success.
“A lot of people throughout my life have helped me out and it’s motivation to keep going,” he said. “You don’t do anything alone.”
Maye’s humility and relatability drew applause multiple times throughout the evening. Students asked questions ranging from football preparation to balancing expectations and mental health. He answered each one with the ease of someone not trying to perform — just trying to be real.
“He was genuine,” said senior Emily Rivera. “It didn’t feel like we were hearing from a celebrity. It felt like we were talking to someone who remembers what it feels like to be us.”
And maybe that’s why the “MVP” chants hit differently.
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