Patriots fans face a patient rebuild as Drake Maye steps into a high-velocity, language-heavy offense. The discussion centers on Maye absorbing pre-snap calls, mic identifications, and protections, even with veteran help in Garrett Bradbury snapping the ball. The group stresses that progress may be gradual, especially with McDaniels’ system demanding more from the quarterback than most rookie seasons. The running game with Henderson is viewed as a stabilizing counterbalance to early learning curves.

Mac Jones’ stint in the same framework is used as a lens: if Maye can translate that experience into poise and efficiency, New England could accelerate toward competitive contention. The talk also touches the division’s top rival and the need to lay a solid foundation this year to unlock growth next season, with Vrabel’s return to form as a longer-term backdrop for the Patriots’ rise.