North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye, widely recognized as one of the premier NFL prospects in college football, revealed to ESPN on Monday that he is foregoing the remainder of his eligibility at UNC to enter the NFL draft.
The redshirt sophomore, who started all 26 games in the past two seasons at UNC, confirmed that he will not participate in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl against West Virginia. Concluding his college career with a 17-9 record as a starter, Maye expressed that the decision to transition to the NFL was the result of careful consideration with his family and trusted advisors.
Maye, a strong contender to be the top overall pick in the draft, leaves behind an impressive legacy at UNC, where he threw for 8,018 yards, ranking fifth on the university’s all-time passing list. He also secured the fourth spot on UNC’s career touchdown list with 63.
Leading UNC to the ACC championship game in 2022, Maye played a pivotal role as the Tar Heels achieved a 9-1 start to the season, reaching as high as No. 13 in the rankings. Reflecting on his time at North Carolina, Maye expressed fulfillment in realizing his lifelong dream of playing quarterback for the university.
Maye’s departure sets the stage for a potential months-long debate regarding the top spot in the draft. USC quarterback Caleb Williams, a notable figure in the discussion, has yet to declare his intentions for the 2024 season but has affirmed his decision not to participate in the postseason.
In preparation for the next phase of his career, Maye, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 230 pounds, emphasized his commitment to showcasing not only his physical prowess but also his mental acuity. He aims to demonstrate to NFL teams that he possesses the qualities of a winner, leader, and player ready to take on the challenges of a franchise.
Acknowledging the perceived competition with Caleb Williams, Maye welcomes the challenge and asserts his determination to prove himself as the best quarterback in the upcoming draft. The ongoing debate about the No. 1 pick remains unresolved among NFL teams, with the final decision possibly hinging on the offensive scheme fit for the team holding the top pick.
Maye, with a playing style reminiscent of Eli Manning, is seen as a classic NFL quarterback with a smooth pocket presence and precise ball placement. As he embarks on the journey towards the draft, Maye expressed gratitude for the support of the UNC fan base and his deep connection to the university, which he chose over Alabama by flipping his commitment during the recruitment process.
“The people make the place,” Maye remarked, reflecting on his time at UNC. He extended his thanks to coach Mack Brown, his family, and the dedicated UNC fan base, emphasizing the special nature of Chapel Hill as a college town. Maye’s decision to leave UNC signifies a significant milestone in his journey, fulfilling a dream shared by his family and deeply rooted in the university’s legacy.
