Gronk and Jules discuss concerns over Patriots quarterback Drake Maye
Former Patriots players Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman said on their podcast that they are worried about quarterback Drake Maye's performance as New England's offense struggles early in the season.
Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman opened the latest episode of their podcast by questioning whether the Patriots should be concerned about quarterback Drake Maye and the team's offense. They noted that New England has averaged just 15 points per game through two contests, far below last season's 28.8 points per game.
Maye has thrown four interceptions and one touchdown while being sacked six times, a decline from the form that placed him second in MVP voting the previous year. > "I’m worried," Gronkowski said. > "He’s regressing a little bit over the past five or six games compared to the first 10 or 15 games last season. It’s definitely something to worry about, but the biggest picture is that they got the win."
Edelman added that Maye appeared uncomfortable, citing a recent interception where the quarterback’s feet were not set. He also pointed to the Patriots' revamped receiving corps—new additions A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs have yet to produce touchdowns, while former star Stefon Diggs has three in his first two games. Brown missed the season opener with a high-ankle sprain and remains out.
The offensive line performed better than in the previous Super Bowl, yet the run game has been inconsistent. Running back TreVeyon Henderson recorded a long touchdown run, but most rushing attempts have been limited, and Rhamondre Stevenson saw reduced carries after a fumble. Edelman suggested that a stronger ground attack could open up play-action opportunities for Maye.
Both former players praised the Patriots' defense, which helped secure a 20-3 win over Pittsburgh, but emphasized that sustained offensive improvement is necessary for future success.