Patriots Head Into Regular Season Without Preseason Snaps for Drake Maye

The New England Patriots are heading into the 2026 regular season with a notable question mark surrounding their starting quarterback. Drake Maye did not take a single snap during the preseason, joining a growing trend across the NFL where teams are opting to protect their primary signal-callers from the risks of exhibition play. With the Patriots set to open their campaign in a high-profile Super Bowl rematch against the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday, September 9, questions remain regarding whether the lack of game-speed preparation will impact the team's early rhythm.

Head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged that the decision to bench Maye throughout the preseason was not necessarily his initial plan. However, after consulting with Cleveland Browns coach Todd Monken ahead of their preseason finale, the two leaders reached a mutual conclusion that their respective rosters were too thin, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines, to risk injury to starters. Vrabel noted that while the choice was difficult, he prioritized reaching the regular season with his core group intact, emphasizing that there is no single correct philosophy when it comes to preseason usage.

To compensate for the lack of game reps, the Patriots relied heavily on joint practices. Maye participated in approximately 84 full-team reps during sessions with the Indianapolis Colts and Philadelphia Eagles. While some coaches argue that controlled practice environments allow for more complex scheme work without the risk of live hits, others—including former Patriots coach Bill Belichick—have historically maintained that nothing replicates the reactions and physicality of a live game. Vrabel spent much of the preseason navigating this balance, ultimately deciding that the controlled environment was the safer path for his young quarterback.

As the team shifts focus to the regular season, the coaching staff is also managing the development of younger players like rookie outside linebacker Gabe Jacas. Having missed spring workouts, Jacas is currently navigating a steep learning curve, with coaches focusing on his positioning and understanding of defensive schemes. Meanwhile, second-year linebacker Elijah Ponder has emerged as a reliable piece for the defense, earning praise from the coaching staff for his versatility and confidence. The Patriots will return to the practice field this week before departing for Seattle, aiming to hit the ground running in their first primetime opener since 2019.