Why Drake Maye will Be the Biggest Bust of the 2024 NFL Draft

By Jason Bolton May 08, 2024 14:32 GMT+4 min read

Drake Maye, the highly touted quarterback from the University of North Carolina, has been a name on everyone's lips in the lead up to the 2024 NFL Draft. With an impressive career at UNC and a trajectory that seemed to be pointing towards Heisman Trophy contention, it's no wonder that he was picked in the first round and third overall by the New England Patriots. However, beneath the glitz and glamour, there are some warning signs that Drake Maye may not live up to the hype.

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Drake Maye's Rise at UNC

Drake Maye's journey to the NFL draft has been nothing short of remarkable. At UNC, he displayed incredible talent and potential. He was on pace for a Heisman Trophy consideration, showcasing his exceptional arm strength, accuracy, and field vision. His performances on the field had scouts and analysts buzzing with excitement, leading to high expectations for his professional career.

Parallels with Mitchell Trubisky

The excitement surrounding Drake Maye's draft prospects is reminiscent of the buzz that surrounded Mitchell Trubisky when he was selected second overall by the Chicago Bears in the 2017 NFL Draft. Like Maye, Trubisky was also a UNC product and had shown flashes of brilliance during his college career. However, Trubisky's transition to the NFL did not pan out as expected, and he is widely regarded as one of the biggest busts of his draft class.

The New England Patriots' Quarterback Struggles

The New England Patriots' struggles to develop quarterbacks post-Tom Brady are well-documented. After the departure of the legendary Brady, the Patriots have faced challenges in finding a suitable successor. The jury is still out on Mac Jones, the Patriots' first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. While Jones showed promise in his rookie season, there are concerns about his long-term viability as a franchise quarterback. This context raises questions about the Patriots' ability to nurture and develop a young talent like Drake Maye.

Analyzing the Concerns

While Drake Maye undoubtedly possesses immense talent, there are valid concerns about his readiness for the NFL. His limited experience as a starter at the college level raises questions about his ability to handle the complexities of the professional game. Furthermore, the pressure of being a high draft pick and the expectations that come with it can be overwhelming for young quarterbacks.

The Risk of Being Overhyped

The hype surrounding Drake Maye may inadvertently place undue pressure on him to deliver immediate results. The transition from college to professional football is a daunting task for any player, particularly for a quarterback expected to lead a franchise. The risk of overhyping a young talent is that it can set unrealistic expectations and potentially derail their development.

The Outcome

As we eagerly anticipate the 2024 NFL Draft, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Drake Maye as he embarks on his professional career. While his potential is undeniable, history has shown that being a high draft pick, especially as a quarterback from UNC, does not guarantee success in the NFL. The cautionary tale of Mitchell Trubisky and the Patriots' recent struggles with quarterback development serve as sobering reminders of the uncertainties that lie ahead for Drake Maye. Only time will tell whether he can defy the odds and fulfill his promise, or if he will join the ranks of the biggest draft busts in NFL history.