The New England Patriots are hoping a fresh face can help turn the tide on their struggling season. As they prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in London, all eyes are on rookie quarterback Drake Maye. The 22-year-old has injected a much-needed dose of youthful energy into the locker room, drawing a surprising comparison to none other than Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski.
Maye’s ‘Gronk-ish’ Energy
According to Patriots coach Jerod Mayo, Maye brings an upbeat attitude and mentality reminiscent of Gronkowski when he first joined the team in 2010. Mayo, who was entering his third season as a Patriots linebacker at the time, remembers the happy-go-lucky presence Gronk brought to the all-business locker room.
He does have that youthfulness to him, but from a pro approach, he’s doing it the right way getting himself ready every week.
– Alex Van Pelt, Patriots offensive coordinator
While Maye may not be quite as boisterous as Gronk, his energetic demeanor has been a welcome addition to a team in desperate need of a spark. Veteran tight end Hunter Henry appreciates the way the rookie has integrated himself, noting that their relationship will only continue to grow.
Bouncing Back in London
The Patriots are hoping Maye’s youthful exuberance translates to on-field success as they look to snap a five-game losing streak against the Jaguars at Wembley Stadium. Despite being added to the injury report with a knee issue, both Maye and Mayo insist the rookie has looked good in practice leading up to the game.
New England will also be bolstered by the return of running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who is trending towards playing after missing time with a foot injury. Stevenson’s presence should take some pressure off Maye and open up the offense.
Onwenu Seeks Improvement
As the Patriots offense looks to find its rhythm, offensive lineman Mike Onwenu knows he needs to step up his game. The highly-paid veteran has struggled in pass protection and run blocking this season, but he’s committed to improving his technique and hand usage moving forward.
I should be better. I’m working on engaging defenders quicker and not letting them get into my chest-plate first.
– Mike Onwenu, Patriots offensive lineman
With Maye under center and key players like Stevenson and Onwenu focused on improvement, the Patriots are hopeful they can turn things around in front of their biggest crowd of the season at Wembley. If the rookie quarterback can channel his inner Gronk and rise to the occasion, New England may finally have something to smile about.
