Patriots quarterback Drake Maye earns AFC Offensive Player of the Week amid injury concerns
Drake Maye was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week after a strong comeback win over the Bills, while New England deals with multiple injuries on both sides of the ball.
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye received AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors following a 29-point comeback victory against the Buffalo Bills. Maye completed 22 of 37 passes for 269 yards and three touchdowns, adding 54 rushing yards.
"It’s great to see him be recognized for his performance and helping us win," head coach Mike Vrabel said. "I want us to win those awards every single week, whether that’s Drake or anybody on offense or the performances that we could have on defense or special teams."
Maye, who entered Week 4 with one passing touchdown and six interceptions, said he is maintaining a consistent mindset regardless of weekly outcomes.
"I’m trying to keep the same mindset when things don’t go well and bounce back," he said. "Every week is a new week in this league and every team is different."
Wide receiver Efton Chism III, who made a one-handed game-winning catch, dismissed criticism from Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson and noted he could see a larger role with A.J. Brown and Mack Hollins sidelined.
The Patriots’ practice squad added undrafted cornerback Al’Zillion Hamilton to address a shortage of defensive backs, as four cornerbacks were listed on the injury report. Other notable absences included starters Christian Gonzalez, Carlton Davis, and several linebackers and defensive linemen.
On offense, running back Rhamondre Stevenson, receiver Mack Hollins, right tackle Morgan Moses and fullback Reggie Gilliam were limited or unavailable. Stevenson, who left Sunday’s game with an ankle issue, remains a question mark for the upcoming matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.
A.J. Brown, who is on injured reserve with a high-ankle sprain, is expected to return to practice next week but is not eligible to play this Sunday.
Patriots safety Kevin Byard highlighted the upcoming challenge of containing Raiders tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer, who account for a significant share of the team’s passing targets.
Veteran right guard Ben Brown, who filled in for injured starters, will start his second consecutive game at the position.
"Just doing my job and to the best of my abilities every single down is the most important thing," Brown said.