Drake Maye Had One Final Hurdle To Become Face Of The Franchise. He's Cleared It

Rookie-turned-franchise QB Drake Maye already asserted himself as a leader — even politely cutting off OC Josh McDaniels in a meeting to teach a play — signaling his rising role in the locker room.
A.J. Brown was visibly impressed by Maye’s maturity and communication, and the two have developed clear on-field chemistry.
The Patriots open with a Super Bowl rematch against the Seahawks and face a brutal 2026 slate, so Maye’s voice and decision-making will be critical all season.