The New England Patriots made bold moves in the 2024 NFL Draft, aiming for success but facing uncertainties ahead. In selecting Drake Maye, they’ve acquired a quarterback prospect who shines on paper, boasting all the essential physical attributes sought after in a franchise quarterback.

Yet, Maye is undeniably raw, potentially requiring a year or two of development before reaching NFL readiness.

This reality raises concerns, particularly for NFL analyst Greg Cosell, who openly questions the Patriots’ ability to address Maye’s accuracy and ball-placement issues.

Despite acknowledging Maye’s impressive toolkit, Cosell highlights persistent concerns about his inconsistency in making routine throws due to subpar ball placement, particularly on shorter passes.

Cosell wonders if these issues are fixable and whether Maye can develop accuracy, especially on throws within 12 yards. However, some of these challenges appear mechanical, suggesting potential for improvement with dedicated coaching and development.

The Patriots may need to adopt a patient approach akin to what was seen with Jordan Love. By nurturing Maye’s talent through exposure to NFL life, film study, and refinement of mechanics, they could unlock his full potential over time.

Nevertheless, such a developmental trajectory contrasts with the prevailing trend in today’s NFL, where teams often prioritize early playing time for their young quarterbacks, sometimes at the expense of long-term growth.

The pressure for immediate results can lead to premature exits for promising quarterbacks who fail to meet expectations early on. The Patriots hope to buck this trend with Drake Maye, aiming for sustained success beyond his rookie contract. Only time will tell if their investment pays off.

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