The 2024 NFL Draft produced what appeared to be one of the best quarterback classes in recent memory. Jayden Daniels was the star of the class as he finished seventh in MVP voting. However, Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Bo Nix also showed promise.
Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy — the latter of whom spent the year sidelined with a torn meniscus — are expected to step into starting roles in 2025. Maye will get the opportunity to compete against two quarterbacks from his draft class in joint practices this upcoming preseason.
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Drake Maye Will Face 2 Fellow 2024 QB Draftees in Joint Practices
The New England Patriots have appeared to significantly improve their roster around Maye, who they selected third overall in last year’s draft, believing he will be their franchise quarterback for many years to come.
The revamped roster will kick off its first season under head coach Mike Vrabel with preseason matchups against the Washington Commanders and Minnesota Vikings before closing out their slate with a contest against the New York Giants.
The 2021 NFL Coach of the Year revealed the Patriots’ plan to hold joint practices ahead of their first two preseason games. “I think for sure that the Washington Commanders will come here, and then they’ll play us, and then we are excited to go to Minnesota,” Vrabel stated in comments shared by NBC Sports’ Pro Football Talk.
“It’s a good setup that they have. It allows for great work. The Vikings have an excellent football team, and we have worked with them before, so we’re excited to go back up there.”
Maye did not have an opportunity to face either Daniels or McCarthy, who were selected second and 10th overall, respectively, in his rookie season. Maye’s only matchup with a quarterback from his draft class came in Week 10 as New England beat Williams (first overall) and the Chicago Bears 19-3.
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While he takes on Daniels and McCarthy in the preseason, he is set to face Penix, the eighth overall pick from 2024, and the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9 of the 2025 season.
It is unclear how much Daniels will play in the preseason after an impressive rookie year, where he established himself as one of the league’s best young quarterbacks. The Vikings, however, should give plenty of playing time to McCarthy, who needs more reps after missing all of 2024. Maye should also receive ample time on the field as he learns a new system and creates chemistry with his new teammates on offense.