Patriots exec discusses team's approach to QB competition

"I think those will be some important conversations for us to have. Right now, it's Jacoby Brissett. He's taking the first reps and we're excited about what he's shown not only off the field, but also on the field with his throwing ability" New England's de facto general manager said. "And then, you know, Drake Maye, let's be honest, we've had him for three weeks now. There's a long, long way to go for all of our rookies and all of our players as we adapt to this new scheme that (offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt) is implementing offensively. So, we'll have those conversations as they arise. I'm sure it's going to be a collaborative approach, as it's been so far with really all of the big decisions that we've made, and all four of the quarterbacks that we have on the roster are working hard and ready to go."

Rookie first-round pick Drake Maye opened the Patriots' organized team activities (OTAs) last week as the team's third stringer behind veteran journeyman Jacoby Brissett and 2022 fourth-round selection Bailey Zappe. Maye only worked ahead of fellow rookie Joe Milton.

The third overall pick is expected to compete for the starting job under center this summer, however, and could move to the top of the depth chart by the end of training camp.

Brissett is beginning his second tenure with New England after starting his career as one of Tom Brady's backups in 2016. The 31-year-old re-joined the Patriots on a one-year contract in March after spending time with four different teams from 2020-23 (Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Washington Commanders).

New England finished with the worst record in the AFC last season and is expected to be among the worst teams again in 2024. While Brissett could open the campaign as the starter, he would only be acting as a bridge to Maye eventually taking over as the franchise quarterback.