The New England Patriots are keeping a close eye on quarterback Drake Maye as the Super Bowl approaches, with his health becoming an important topic during the final stretch of preparation. Maye did not practice on Friday while dealing with a shoulder injury and an illness, after being limited in Thursday’s session. With the championship game just days away, his condition remains something to monitor, even though the team has expressed limited concern.
Maye suffered the shoulder injury during the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos, a tightly contested 10–7 win for New England. In the third quarter, the quarterback took a hit while scrambling and immediately reached for his right shoulder. Although he stayed in the game, the incident raised questions about how healthy he will be heading into the Super Bowl.
Maye Expresses Confidence in Recovery While Embracing Rest and Preparation Time
Despite the setback, Maye has projected confidence and determination. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, he said his focus is on doing everything possible to return to full strength. He noted that many players are dealing with physical issues at this stage of the season and stressed the importance of pushing through while remaining smart about recovery. Maye also highlighted the benefit of the two-week break before the Super Bowl, which has given him extra time to rest and study the Seattle Seahawks.
Drake Maye (NFL)Maye does not believe the injury will significantly affect his ability to throw the football. He explained that long seasons often lead to minor injuries surfacing late in the year and credited the Patriots’ medical staff for helping him manage the issue. While he acknowledged that he may not feel completely perfect, Maye said his goal is to get as close to 100 percent as possible and be ready to help his team win.
Encouraging Practice Signs Amid Statistical Contrast as Patriots Rely on Maye Sunday
There were some positive signs during Thursday’s practice, as Maye confirmed that he was able to throw and take part in jog-through drills. Head coach Mike Vrabel downplayed the situation, saying his level of concern was “not much,” which suggests the team remains optimistic about Maye’s availability.
On the field, Maye’s performance this season has varied between the regular season and the playoffs. During the regular season, the 23-year-old completed 72 percent of his passes for 4,394 yards, 31 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He also added 421 rushing yards and two scores. In the postseason, his passing numbers have dipped, with a 55.8 percent completion rate, 533 yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions, while being sacked 15 times.
Even so, Maye has been a major threat as a runner in the playoffs, totaling 141 rushing yards and scoring the Patriots’ only touchdown in the AFC Championship. As New England prepares to face a Seattle defense that allowed just 17.1 points per game this season, the Patriots will need Maye healthy and performing at his best on the sport’s biggest stage.
