Josh McDaniels Has Huge Expectations for Patriots

In addition to McDaniels’ wisdom and counsel, Maye’s progress is somewhat dependent on the presence of competent pass catchers. Despite showcasing impressive poise and resilience at times during his rookie campaign in 2024, Maye was seemingly unable to reach his maximum potential — due largely in part to his being surrounded by a subpar supporting cast and incomplete coaching. The Patriots attempted to bolster Maye’s on-field stable of weapons this offseason by adding veteran receiver Stefon Diggs.

After leading the team with six catches for 101 yards in Week 4, it has become clear that Diggs has immediately upgraded the Patriots’ current pass catching group. On the season, the Maryland product leads New England’s receivers with 19 catches for 213 yards. His sure hands, ability to accelerate and precision route-running provide the team with a talent which has eluded them in recent seasons.

While Diggs jokingly revealed his level of comfort within the Pats’ offense to be at a “5” on a scale of 1-10, the two-time All-Pro quickly clarified his assessment, while putting to rest any uneasiness that he may be dissatisfied or frustrated with his new surroundings.

McDaniels, when recently asked a similar question about his satisfaction with Diggs’ efforts, left nothing to the imagination.

“It’s probably like a nine out of 10,” McDaniels said with a smile. “In terms of understanding the system and the scheme, we probably got a little bit of juice left to squeeze out of the orange. Obviously it’s important, and I think he was being modest when he said that. I heard that little comment.”

In McDaniels’ offense, slot receivers have been known to thrive — as the position tends to be a focal point in his schemes. Due to his impeccable route-running skills, Diggs has the prowess to find success both before and after the catch. He still has the above-average burst, along with the speed in his stride, to be a factor in McDaniel’s offensive attack — whether it be horizontally or vertically. Considering that Diggs is less than one year removed from undergoing surgery to repair his ACL, the future looks bright for his prospects under McDaniels guidance.

“We ask our guys at the beginning of each year to learn the system as a whole, not just from one position. Through injuries and over the course of a season, multiple players are going to need to line up in different spots depending on who’s available and how we want to play,” McDaniels said.

“The more you can do — knowing this spot, that spot, and another — the more it helps you and it helps the team,” he added. “He’s worked really hard at that. Obviously, he wasn’t able to practice in the spring, but once he was cleared in training camp, every rep has been valuable for him. He deserves all the credit for learning multiple spots and being able to line up and play.”

Perhaps McDaniels is putting together an “A-Team” of his own in New England, after all.