Patriots have big Drake Maye concern surface at Vikings' joint practice

Defense ruled the day during the joint practice between the New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings. 

Per Chad Graff of The Athletic, the Patriots defense did a masterful job of disrupting Vikings second-year quarterback  J.J. McCarthy at Wednesday's practice. 

However, New England's offensive line was unable to allow Drake Maye to have enough time to finish plays.

"Even with four new expected starters up front following last year’s debacle, Wednesday suggested that there will likely be some bumps ahead for this offensive line," Graff wrote.

"Sure, going up against the Vikings was always going to be a difficult task. Greenard has been wrecking his own team’s practices in training camp, and everyone in New England knows how good Flores’ scheme can be. But the domination was so thorough by the Vikings’ front seven that three straight plays at one point would’ve resulted in a sack."

Maye showed flashes of promise when he had time to throw downfield or was able to use his legs to buy time or scramble when pressure came. The concern is that the offensive line won't allow Maye enough time to even scramble, so he can make throws.

Graff has noticed the same issues that happened on Wednesday have been a constant at training camp against the Patriots defense.

With a new-look offensive line that includes first-round pick Will Campbell at left tackle, the Patriots are expected to have some bumps at training camp and in September. New England's offense probably won't look great out of the gate while the offensive line develops in offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels' scheme.

If and when the offensive line improves, Maye will have a chance to show off the arm that made him the No. 3 pick in 2024. For now, the offensive line is a concern much like it was last season.