New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye exited the team’s matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers early after a scary hit to the head.
After the hit, he entered the blue medical tent before being taken to the locker room for further evaluation. According to the team, the rookie was evaluated for a head injury.
Per NFL Network’s Steve Wyche (h/t Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer), head coach Jerod Mayo said that Maye was cleared to return to the game.
The injury occurred on a third-and-four as Maye dropped back to pass. The Chargers beat the Patriots’ offensive line, forcing Maye to scramble to try and get the first down. He stepped out of bounds for a loss and was hit in the helmet by Chargers cornerback Cam Hart.
The Patriots turned to backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett with Maye out.
Maye also suffered a head injury in Week 8 against the New York Jets but was back the following week to face the Tennessee Titans.
Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, has put together a commendable rookie season despite the Patriots’ struggles. He’s thrown for 2,159 yards, 14 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 11 games. The North Carolina product has also collected 389 rushing yards and two scores on the ground.
He put together one of his best showings last week against the Buffalo Bills when he threw for 261 yards and a pair of touchdowns as New England fell just short of pulling off the upset.
While it’s been another disappointing season for the Patriots as they sit at 3-12, fans have something to look forward to in Maye.
