Why the Patriots believe Drake Maye could improve even more in Year 2
The New England Patriots are entering organized team activities with growing optimism surrounding quarterback Drake Maye and his development entering the 2026 season.
After a breakout first full season under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, the Patriots believe the former first-round pick may only be scratching the surface.
Patriots expecting faster development from Maye
Maye finished last season as the MVP runner-up after completing 72 percent of his passes with 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions during the regular season.
The young quarterback helped lead New England to a 14-3 record before the offense slowed down in the playoffs against elite defenses.
Now, the focus shifts toward what another offseason in McDaniels’ system could unlock.
“I think the underrated thing he has this year is obviously going into Year 2 in the system is big,” Hunter Henry recently said, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “This system demands a lot on the quarterback position. To have a whole offseason to be in the same scheme and really build on what he did last year, I’m excited to see the jump and progress he can make on a day-to-day basis.”
McDaniels’ offense no longer brand new
One of the biggest talking points surrounding Maye last offseason involved how much responsibility came with operating McDaniels’ offense.
The Patriots’ system places heavy mental demands on the quarterback position, especially with protections, pre-snap adjustments, and progression reads.
Former NFL quarterback Brian Hoyer explained why the second season inside the system can dramatically change a quarterback’s comfort level.
“I always knew the ‘what’ early on in my career, but understanding the ‘why’ came with time. By the end of my time with Josh, I understood the reason for every playcall he was putting in. This year, Drake is going to understand the ‘why’ on the majority of things, which is going to make him play even faster as far as progressions,” Hoyer said.
Patriots facing tougher road in 2026
The Patriots will need Maye to elevate again, as they enter a significantly more difficult schedule.
New England opens the year with seven road games across its first 11 contests, including a Super Bowl LX rematch against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1.
Despite the difficult slate, the organization continues to believe Maye’s growth gives the Patriots a chance to remain among the AFC’s top contenders.
His athleticism, decision-making, and command of the offense already took major steps forward last season. Internally, the expectation now centers around faster processing, stronger anticipation, and even greater control of the offense entering Year 2.
For a Patriots franchise trying to fully establish its next era under center, the development of Drake Maye remains the storyline that matters most.
Thanks for reading. Make sure to check out the latest episode of the OutOfSightSports YouTube series, which dropped last night, where we break down five of the biggest fantasy football sleepers heading into the upcoming 2026-27 NFL season.