During Sunday’s preseason game against the Washington Commanders, New England Patriots starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett sustained an injury to his throwing shoulder in the opening quarter. Coach Jerod Mayo mentioned that Brissett could have continued playing if the plan was to give him more time on the field. The injury occurred when Brissett was sacked by Washington’s KJ Henry, with the impact landing on his right shoulder. Despite grimacing in pain, Brissett stayed in the game for a few more plays before being pulled out as a precautionary measure.
Performance of Drake Maye
Following Brissett’s injury, rookie Drake Maye stepped in as the quarterback for the Patriots. Mayo stated that the decision to give Maye playing time was pre-planned to allow him to play through the second quarter. Maye’s performance was commendable, finishing 13-of-20 for 126 yards and scoring a touchdown on his first drive. He showcased his versatility with a 17-yard run that set up the team’s lone touchdown. The question arises whether Maye is prepared to take over if Brissett’s injury is more severe.
In addition to Brissett and Maye, the Patriots have rookie Joe Milton III and third-year veteran Bailey Zappe on their quarterback depth chart. Mayo has consistently asserted that Brissett is the starter, with Maye having the opportunity to compete for the position. There is uncertainty surrounding Brissett’s injury and how it will affect the team’s decision moving forward. Mayo mentioned the need to review gameplay footage before making any definitive statements about the quarterback situation.
One of the factors that could complicate the quarterback dilemma is the performance of the offensive line. The Patriots’ top offensive line, with the exception of center David Andrews, struggled during the game, committing eight penalties. Issues such as aligning incorrectly and communication errors were prevalent, affecting the overall performance of the offense. The Patriots must address these concerns to ensure a stable environment for the quarterbacks to operate effectively.
As the Patriots approach the roster deadline, they must carefully evaluate Brissett’s injury status and the readiness of their quarterback prospects. The decision to rely on Maye as a backup hinges on his performance and preparedness for the role. The coaching staff will need to make strategic assessments based on the available talent and the team’s immediate needs. The uncertainty surrounding Brissett’s injury adds a layer of complexity to the situation, requiring a thorough evaluation of the quarterback position.
Jacoby Brissett’s shoulder injury has raised questions about the New England Patriots’ quarterback situation. The team faces challenges with regards to the depth chart, offensive line performance, and the readiness of backup quarterbacks. The coaching staff must make informed decisions to ensure the team’s success in the upcoming season. The evaluation of Brissett’s injury and the performance of the quarterbacks will be critical in shaping the Patriots’ strategy moving forward.
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