Officially introduced as head coach of the New England Patriots on Monday, Mike Vrabel said the potential of quarterback Drake Maye is one of the main reasons he accepted the challenge.
The 16th coach in Pats history said an “open dialogue” with owner Robert Kraft was crucial, before adding that he was convinced by the presence in the organization of a “young” quarterback and dynamic.
“I believe that [Drake Maye] is talented and willing to learn. There is a fighting spirit in him, in addition to his multiple skills that will help him lead our attack and our club,” assessed Vrabel about the 22-year-old athlete.
“There is the power of his arm. There are athletic qualities. Certainly, we will have to be up to the task of supporting him,” he added.
Before accepting the Pats’ offer, Vrabel also spoke with the New York Jets and Chicago Bears, two clubs that are also looking for their new head coach.
Asked how he will help Maye reach her full potential, Vrabel said that firstly, he will have to “surround her in the best possible way.”
-“My involvement with Drake will be in terms of match management and decision-making based on different situations. We will develop him as a leader of this attack. Drake will be his own person, but I will equip him to have what it takes to win football games. »
“We are going to have to be a very efficient club in the aerial game. If you look at what leads to wins statistically in the NFL, the ability to affect the opposing quarterback, as well as passing well, are keys to success. There are several ways to achieve this; by protecting the center of the pocket, protecting the ball well, being aggressive without being too bold. »
The third overall pick in the 2024 draft, Maye made 12 starts during his rookie season in New England, completing 225 of his 338 pass attempts for 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
The Patriots will have the fourth overall pick in the 2025 auction after finishing the campaign with a 4-13 record. They will also have considerable sums to offer in the autonomy market in order to build around Maye.
Related News :