Drake Maye Absent Due to Illness, Concern for the Patriots
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – New England Patriots starting quarterback Drake Maye did not participate in Friday’s practice due to an illness, according to coach Mike Vrabel. The absence of Maye, just nine days before the Patriots face the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, coincides with the management of a right shoulder injury suffered in the AFC Championship last Sunday.On Thursday, Maye participated in a limited capacity in training due to his shoulder. During the time reporters were present at Thursday’s practice, Maye and the team’s other quarterbacks did not throw. Vrabel indicated that the shoulder responded “favorably”. Maye hadn’t missed a practice all season before Friday. He was present at the facilities on Friday morning and involved in meetings, according to Vrabel.“We’ve had a lot of players in the last month, six weeks, with illnesses. So, again, we’re just trying to do what’s best for the player and the team. I’m trying to take care of the guys, not spread anything,” Vrabel said.
Mike Vrabel
When asked if he thought his shoulder injury could limit his ability to throw in the game, Maye responded: “No, I don’t think so. That’s what the [athletic] trainers are for. I’m going to do everything I can to feel 100%. I’m sure I’ll get there, if not, as close as possible, to 99%.” In Maye’s absence from training, nine-year veteran Joshua Dobbs moves up to number 1 on the depth chart, followed by third-year player Tommy DeVito. Patriots players are scheduled to have a day off on Saturday before traveling to California on Sunday. The Patriots are scheduled to hold four practices in California.“I’m looking forward to being ready to play,” Maye said on Thursday. “This is the game you dream of playing, so I’m looking forward to going out there and having the opportunity to play in the Super Bowl.”
Drake Maye
