Patriots' Drake Maye starts OTAs in surprising position

It's far too early to jump to any conclusions, as Monday was the first day of OTAs, which are voluntary.

Among the media members impressed with Maye's performance to begin the week was ESPN's Mike Reiss. The insider noted that first-year head coach's decision to stick Maye behind Brissett and Zappe is likely a "walk before you run type deal."

New England is expected to be among the worst teams in the league in 2024, so while Brissett could open the year as the starter, he'd likely act as a bridge to Maye eventually taking over. The University of North Carolina product could very well supplant Zappe as the No. 2 by training camp this summer as well.

Brissett — who started his career with the Patriots in 2016 as one of Tom Brady's backups — re-joined the organization on a one-year deal in March. He'll turn 32 in December, is on his fifth team in five years and played just three games with the Washington Commanders last season as Sam Howell's backup.

Zappe played in 10 games during the 2023, replacing former Pro Bowler Mac Jones under center and starting the team's final six games. The Western Kentucky product finished last season with a 59.9% completion percentage for 1,272 passing yards, six touchdowns and nine interceptions.