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New England Patriots star quarterback Drake Maye did not practice Friday due to a shoulder injury and illness.
With just nine days until the Super Bowl, Maye’s health has become something we must monitor. The 23-year-old participated on a limited basis in Thursday’s practice.
Maye, who appeared to have been injured in the third quarter of the Patriots’ 10-7 victory over the Denver Broncos when he was hit in a fight and immediately grabbed his right shoulder, said he will do everything he can to get back to 100%.
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Drake Maye (10) of the New England Patriots stands for the national anthem before the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado, on January 25, 2026. (Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images)
“I’m going to try to do everything I can to get back to 100%. I think a lot of people in that locker room would say the same thing,” Maye told reporters during a news conference Thursday. “Having a two-week break is good to get some more rest and get to know the Seahawks as best I can. From there, I’m looking forward to getting out there and practicing and trying to transfer that into live game reps.”
The former North Carolina star said he doesn’t think his throwing ability is inhibited.
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New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye looks toward his bench during the second half of the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Denver Broncos in Denver, Colorado, on Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
“No, I don’t think so. That’s why you put in the time. That’s why you have coaches. I think it’s been one of those things where the season is long and sometimes things happen. I’m going to do everything I can to feel 100%. I’m sure I’ll be, if not there, as close to 99% as possible, or I’ll do everything I can to make sure I’m shooting and, like I said, I’ll do everything I can to help the team win.”
Maye said he pitched Thursday and was able to do some of the jogging. Head coach Mike Vrabel said his level of concern “isn’t much” during a news conference Thursday.
Maye, who was fantastic in the regular season, hasn’t had the same success in the playoffs, despite reaching the Super Bowl.
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New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) warms up before the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Denver Broncos in Denver, Colorado, on January 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
In the regular season, the 23-year-old completed 72% of his passes for 4,394 yards with 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions, along with 421 rushing yards and two touchdowns. In the playoffs, Maye hasn’t been as effective through the air, completing 55.8% of his passes for 533 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions while being sacked 15 times.
However, Maye has been dynamic with his legs, rushing for 141 yards and a touchdown, the only one the Patriots scored in the AFC Championship, in three games.
The Patriots will need Maye to be at his best in the Super Bowl, as the Seahawks’ defense was the best in the NFL this season, allowing just 17.1 points per game.
