Mike Vrabel addresses Drake Maye, starters’ preseason finale status
· Yahoo Sports
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – Drake Maye didn't see any time on the field during the first preseason game, so many thought that Mike Vrabel would decide to give the quarterback at least one drive in the team's second game.
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But that was not the case.
Maye was one of many starters who sat out for the second straight game, and Vrabel was asked about this decision, specifically in relation to how important he feels it is for the starters to potentially play in the preseason finale against the Cleveland Browns.
"I do not think we have a very deep team, so I think we have to make sure that we are preparing our football team and that we are doing everything that we can to keep our best players available," the head coach replied. "And if that means playing Thursday as part of preparation, then that is what we will do.
"I have not made that decision yet, but I would say that that is something that I am confident in with where we are set up currently."
The Patriots have conducted two joint practices, hosting the Indianapolis Colts for a day, as well as a two-day session with the Philadelphia Eagles. During that time, Maye got tons of reps, going up against Philadelphia's star players. So, that was likely viewed as more valuable than game action. But this week, there are no practices with the Browns, and instead the team will just have the preseason game on Thursday night. So, that could be a time for Maye to get in there with the starters and get his feet wet.
However, with the threat of injury, that's something Vrabel might also not want to risk.
But one thing is for sure: Maye will be out on the field on September 9 when the Patriots open the season in Seattle for a Super Bowl rematch against the Seahawks.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Mike Vrabel addresses Drake Maye, starters’ preseason finale status