The new regime has made their first pick – selecting UNC quarterback Drake Maye as the number three overall pick in the 2024 draft. It marked the first time in 24 years that Bill Belichick wasn’t present in the war room for the pick. However, he promptly shared his insights on ESPN+’s “The Pat McAfee Show Draft Spectacular” immediately after the selection.
“He hasn’t played very much. He really doesn’t have a lot of experience. He’s going to need some work in reading defenses, reading coverages,” the future Hall of Fame coach said. “He’s kinda quick to bail out of the pocket. He’s going to need to hang in there a little bit longer and find those receivers.”
The 6-foot-4, 223-pound 21-year-old is coming off a Junior season in which he completed 269 of his 425 passes for 3,608 yards, with 24 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Additionally, Maye finished second in rushing with 449 yards and nine touchdowns on 112 carries.
Over the past two seasons, he has started 26 games and completed 618 of 952 passes for 8,018 yards, with 63 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.
Belichick was swift in expressing his disagreement with the comparisons between Maye and Buffalo’s Pro Bowl quarterback, Josh Allen.
“Drake compares himself a lot to Josh Allen. He’s been doing that for quite a while. We’ll see about that. I think there are some similarities – size and athleticism,” Belichick said. “But Josh Allen is a pretty special player.”
Maye, who turns 22 on August 30, was viewed as more of a developmental pick but has proven to possess the intangibles, as noted by Belichick.
“A very talented kid. Good size, runs well, has a good arm.”
In Belichick’s assessment, the Patriots have addressed one of their top needs, with others including tackle and wide receiver.
“That’s certainly a top need for them. It’s quarterback, tackle, and wide receiver,” Belichick said. “This is one of the top needs.”
