The New England Patriots opted to retain their position in the NFL Draft, holding onto the No. 3 overall pick and using it to select Drake Maye.

Maye’s selection signals the team’s intention to groom him as their franchise quarterback, although whether he’ll start the first game of the season remains undecided.

Head coach Jerod Mayo emphasized that Maye’s starting position for Week 1 is contingent on his performance.

Mayo revealed plans for a quarterback competition between Maye and the recently acquired Jacoby Brissett.

Speaking to NFL.com’s Cameron Wolfe, Mayo acknowledged Brissett’s mentorship role: “A lot of good players in that locker room. Look, Jacoby understands. He’s a mentor. He’s very smart, has great leadership skills, and hopefully Drake can learn something from him, as well.”

Mayo emphasized the competitive nature of the team’s approach: “I would say we’re going to compete all spring. We’re going to compete during training camp, and the best player will start.”

Following the draft selection of Maye, initial speculation leaned towards Brissett likely starting to allow the rookie time to adjust to the offense. However, it appears Maye will be given ample opportunity to demonstrate his capability as a starter.

Despite a solid draft class, the New England Patriots, who won four games last season, are likely to face another rebuilding year. The team’s heavy focus on offense in the draft reflects a shift in team-building strategy without Bill Belichick at the helm.

Maye enters the league as one of the top quarterback prospects in his class. Unlike his peers Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels, Maye won’t be handed the starting job from day one.

The competition with Brissett presents an opportunity for Maye to further develop as he embarks on his NFL career in 2024.

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