New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is not expected to play in Thursday's preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts. Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed the decision while leaving room for a late change.
ESPN NFL Nation reporter Mike Reiss shared Vrabel's update on X.
“QB Drake Maye is not expected to play in Thursday’s preseason opener, per Mike Vrabel, who says that is always subject to change."
The decision comes after Maye led New England to a 14-3 record and a Super Bowl appearance last season. He established himself as the centerpiece of a team that made a major jump under Vrabel.
Maye completed 72% of his passes for 4,394 yards, 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 2025. He also added 450 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
Maye's preseason absence therefore creates little concern about his standing. New England has more important goals than giving its franchise quarterback exhibition snaps.
The Patriots have instead used joint practices with Indianapolis to provide Maye with competitive work. Those sessions offer more meaningful preparation than a limited preseason appearance.
New England also upgraded Maye's supporting cast this offseason. The Patriots traded for A.J. Brown and strengthened the offensive line with Alijah Vera-Tucker and first-round pick Will Campbell.
Those additions give offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels more options around Maye. They also reflect the organization's focus on protecting its quarterback and extending last season's success.
The Patriots' biggest challenge will be maintaining their structure after reaching the Super Bowl. Maye now faces higher expectations after finishing second in MVP voting.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For Vrabel, protecting Maye during preseason fits the larger goal of preparing for September. The quarterback does not need to prove his value against Indianapolis.
The joint practices have given him valuable work without exposing him to unnecessary preseason hits. Unless plans change, Maye will watch Thursday's opener from the sideline.
That makes the game more important for New England's depth chart. Backup quarterback Tommy DeVito should receive an opportunity to run the offense and compete for his roster role.
