NEWYou can now listen to Pakinomist articles!
New England Patriots star quarterback Drake Maye did not practice Friday as he dealt with a shoulder injury and an illness.
Just nine days before the Super Bowl, the status of Maye’s health has become something to watch. The 23-year-old was a limited participant in training on Thursday.
Maye, who appeared to be injured in the third quarter of the Patriots’ 10-7 win over the Denver Broncos when he was hit on a tackle and immediately clutched his right shoulder, said he will do what he can to get back to 100%.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON Pakinomist
Drake Maye (10) of the New England Patriots stands for the national anthem prior to 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 just going to try to do what I can to get back to 100%. I think a lot of people in that dressing room would say the same thing,” Maye told reporters during a news conference on Thursday. “Having a two-week break is nice to rest a little bit more and get to know the Seahawks as well as I can. From there, I’m looking forward to getting out there to practice and try to carry that over to the live game reps.”
The former North Carolina star said he doesn’t think his ability to throw will be hampered.
NEW BROWNS COACH TELLS SHEDEUR SANDERS ‘WE TRIED TO DRAFT YOUR A–‘ WHILE RAVENS: ‘IT HAPPENED’
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 spend time. That’s why you have coaches. I think it’s just been one of those things where it’s a long season and sometimes things come up. I’m going to do what I can to feel 100%. I’m sure I’ll get, if not there, as close as you can, 99% sure I can, and do what I’ve said and do whatever I have said. can help the team win.”
Maye said he threw Thursday and was able to do some of the running. Head coach Mike Vrabel said his level of concern is “not much” during a news conference Thursday.
Maye, who was great in the regular season, hasn’t seen the same success in the playoffs, despite making the Super Bowl.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE Pakinomist APP
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) warms up prior to the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Denver Broncos in Denver, Colorado on Jan. 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 one touchdown, the only Patriots score in the AFC Championship, in three games.
The Patriots need Maye to be at their best in the Super Bowl, as the Seahawks’ defense was the best in the NFL this season, allowing just 17.1 points per game. match.
