In the final minutes of Thursday night’s game between the New England Patriots and the New York Jets, rookie quarterback Drake Maye made his much-anticipated NFL regular-season debut.
Maye, who was selected as the No. 3 overall pick in this year’s draft, stepped onto the field for a single drive. During his limited time in the game, he completed 4 of 8 passes for 22 yards and rushed twice for 12 yards. While the stat line didn’t dazzle, it was enough to give fans a glimpse of the potential he brings to the Patriots’ offense. Given New England’s current struggles and lack of high-level talent, Maye’s performance showed promise despite the modest numbers.
Although he only played briefly against the Jets, Maye left a strong impression on the Patriots’ coaching staff, who were encouraged by his poise and decision-making. Head coach Jerod Mayo, who decided to give the rookie a chance in the waning moments of the game, seemed optimistic about Maye’s future.
“I just thought it was a good opportunity for him to go out there with the first team and try to string some drives together,” Mayo said in a post-game press conference. “He moved the ball well, and we’ll evaluate the film to see how he did. For a debut, it was a solid showing.”
While Patriots fans may be eager to see more of Maye at quarterback, the team isn’t rushing into any major lineup changes. Mayo reiterated his trust in the current starter, Jacoby Brissett, but left the door open for the future. “Jacoby is our quarterback until I say he’s not,” Mayo clarified. “We’re taking it one game at a time.”
Off the field, Maye’s biggest supporter, his longtime girlfriend Ann Michael Hudson, was thrilled to witness his NFL debut. The couple, who have been inseparable since they started dating in 2020, have shared a close bond throughout Maye’s rise to the professional level. Hudson, who was by Maye’s side during the NFL Draft when his dreams of becoming a pro football player became a reality, couldn’t have been prouder of him after Thursday’s game.
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Following the draft, Hudson took to social media to express her excitement for Maye’s next chapter with the Patriots. “Drake, words cannot describe how proud I am of you,” she wrote. “What an incredible blessing it has been to be by your side through all of this. I love you and can’t wait for this next chapter! GO PATS!”
As she cheered him on from the stands at MetLife Stadium during his debut, Hudson’s unwavering support for Maye was evident. Having stood by his side for the highs and lows of his journey, from college football at the University of North Carolina to the NFL, she continues to be one of his strongest allies as he embarks on his pro career.
Looking ahead, Maye will be eager to build on his debut performance and earn more playing time in the Patriots’ upcoming games. The team’s next challenge will come on September 29, when they face the San Francisco 49ers.
Though the Patriots have yet to hint at a quarterback change, fans and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on the young signal-caller’s development, anticipating that Maye may get more opportunities to shine as the season progresses.
For now, Drake Maye and Ann Michael Hudson are relishing the moment, grateful for how far they’ve come and excited for what lies ahead.
