When the New England Patriots handed the reins to Drake Maye in Week 6 of the 2024 season, they were banking on the No. 3 overall pick to rejuvenate an offense that had been inconsistent and inexperienced. Over 11 starts from Week 6 to Week 17, Maye amassed 2,254 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, alongside 409 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. This performance translated to an average of 16.0 fantasy points per game, positioning him just outside the top 12 quarterbacks for the season.

Maye's efficiency was particularly noteworthy. He finished 17th in quarterback rating (QBR) and managed to throw at least one touchdown in every full game he played. As he enters his second NFL season, Maye is poised to become a top-10 fantasy quarterback, thanks to his dual-threat capabilities and an improved offensive setup.

Enhanced Supporting Cast

The Patriots made significant offseason moves to bolster Maye's supporting cast. The addition of Stefon Diggs, a proven wide receiver with six 1,000-yard seasons, is expected to elevate Maye's passing game. Diggs' route-running and separation skills are a perfect match for Maye's arm talent. Additionally, the Patriots brought in Mack Hollins, rookie Kyle Williams, and dynamic second-round running back TreVeyon Henderson, who adds versatility to the backfield.

Improved Offensive Line

Last season, the Patriots struggled with pass protection, ranking near the bottom in pass block win rate and last in run block win rate. Maye was sacked 34 times in just 13 games. To address this, New England added veteran linemen Morgan Moses and Garrett Bradbury, drafted left tackle Will Campbell in the first round, and picked up center Jared Wilson. These improvements should provide Maye with cleaner pockets and more consistent production.

New Coaching Strategy

With new head coach Mike Vrabel and the return of Josh McDaniels as offensive coordinator, the Patriots are expected to adopt a more balanced and adaptable offensive approach. McDaniels' experience in building schemes around a quarterback's strengths will likely result in early-down runs to set up play-action and run-pass options, leveraging Maye's mobility and passing ability.

Rushing Ability

Maye's rushing ability is a significant asset in fantasy football. He ranked ninth among quarterbacks in rushing yards and first with 7.8 yards per rush (minimum 20 carries). This dual-threat capability ensures a reliable fantasy floor, even in games where his passing numbers might dip.

Favorable Schedule

The Patriots have the sixth-easiest schedule in 2025, according to ESPN analyst Mike Clay's strength of schedule matrix. Maye also aligns well as a bye-week fill-in for managers with top quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes or Joe Burrow, offering flexibility and high-end QB2 potential.

Addressing Concerns

Maye's off-target percentage (13.6%) last season was a reflection of the risky passes he made under pressure. With improved protection and better offensive talent, this number is expected to drop. Additionally, Diggs' recovery from an ACL injury is a variable, but the depth of the receiving corps provides ample support.

Potential for a Breakout Season

Maye's rookie per-game production already bordered on QB1 territory. With an improved line, better playmakers, and a system that leverages his skills, a breakout season is well within reach. A game with 250 passing yards, two touchdowns, and 60 rushing yards would net 24 fantasy points, well above the 20.9 average of last season's top-10 fantasy quarterbacks. Mix in a couple of spike weeks against weak defenses, and Maye could easily find himself in top-10 territory.

In conclusion, Drake Maye offers a safe rushing floor and exciting passing upside, making him one of the smartest targets at quarterback in 2025 fantasy drafts.