The competition at Patriots training camp reached a new level on Wednesday as the reigning NFC runner-up Washington Commanders visited Gillette Stadium for a joint practice. The session, led by head coaches Mike Vrabel and Dan Quinn, showcased two of the top quarterbacks selected in the 2024 NFL Draft: Jayden Daniels from the Commanders and Patriots QB Drake Maye.
Although Maye and Daniels weren’t going head-to-head, the New England quarterback’s performance was impressive. Maye connected on 10 of his first 12 throws in full team drills, finding a rhythm by working the middle of the field with shifty slot receiver DeMario Douglas. The Patriots offense showed well, thanks to a more even matchup against the Commanders’ defensive front.
Maye’s standout moments included a seam pass to TE Hunter Henry off play-action and a deep out to WR Mack Hollins in cover-two hole. The QB also demonstrated his ability to manipulate coverage with fake plays, capping off a great stretch by finding Hollins in the slot. Maye capped off practice with an interception but attributed it to the defense’s good play.
Veteran LB Bobby Wagner made a key heady play to tip Maye’s pass in the air, and Mike Sainristil intercepted the ball off the deflection for the Commanders defense. Despite the loss, the Patriots offense made its fair share of plays against a playoff-caliber opponent. The team’s offensive line gave Maye time to operate, his receivers were getting open downfield, and the QB was delivering accurate throws.
Other takeaways from the practice include WR DeMario Douglas, who started hot with three catches in team drills, showcasing his ability to win on quick-hitters. Veteran WR Mack Hollins had a noteworthy practice, connecting with Maye three times on deep outs and a goal-line rollout concept. Rookie RB TreVeyon Henderson stood up to Washington’s blitzer in the A-Gap, showing promise as a pass protector.
Overall, the joint practice was a positive sign for the Patriots offense, with Maye shining as the star quarterback.
Source: https://www.patriots.com/news/12-takeaways-from-wednesday-s-joint-practice-vs-the-commanders-for-drake-maye-patriots-offense