There are varying theories about why New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has struggled through the first three games of the season.
Former Super Bowl-winning head coach Bruce Arians believes the 24-year-old quarterback is pressing to make things happen. Legendary wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. put the onus on Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and the entire offense.
NFL insider Tom Pelissero spoke with opposing coaches and scouts who have faced Maye to get a different take on the situation.
Pelissero wrote:
"Opposing coaches and scouts who have watched and/or faced the Patriots say the entire offense looks choppy and disconnected. They’re just not on the same page. In turn, Maye appears to be pressing harder to make something
happen, which only leads to more questionable decision-making."
Something that would help Maye play better would be the return of star wide receiver A.J. Brown, who is currently on injured reserve with a high ankle sprain. He could also use a better run game with more steady support on the right side of the offensive line.
The Patriots have been hammered with injuries on the offensive front, and it's going to fall on McDaniels to get more creative with his play-calling to make up for those deficiencies. It's the same for the struggling receivers on the team. McDaniels has to do a better job of figuring out ways to highlight their strengths to get the entire offense moving again.
But Maye also has to take care of the football. The turnovers have been a killer for the Patriots this season. So far, Maye has only thrown one touchdown pass and committed seven turnovers. No team in the NFL is winning with those kinds of mistakes.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Opposing coaches and scouts reportedly diagnose Drake Maye's struggles
