Things aren’t looking as planned for the New England Patriots heading into Week 4 of the 2026 NFL season. Despite going 1-2 in the initial stretch so far, there isn’t much help coming from Drake Maye either.
Speaking recently on The Adam Schefter Podcast, ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter did not hold back while discussing the quarterback’s rough start to the 2026 season, comparing the New England Patriots quarterback to former Denver Broncos first-round pick Paxton Lynch.
“Can you believe what we're watching here if you go back and look? Since the start of last year's playoffs? Schefter said. “Over the last seven games against playoff teams, he's had 10 interceptions — more interceptions than touchdowns — sacked 30 times, fumbled nine times, lost five.”
It is time to push the panic button on Patriots QB Drake Maye?
With @tyschmit
🎧 https://t.co/zxxQ73I4yH pic.twitter.com/sNz9DV2IOr
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 30, 2026
“Drake Maye somehow has been transformed into Paxton Lynch. I don't know how this happened,” he further said.
The comments came after New England suffered a 35-6 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 3. The Patriots fell to 1-2, and their offense managed only two touchdowns through the first three games.
Maye was also replaced by Tommy DeVito late in the Jacksonville loss. He completed 14 of 25 passes for 199 yards with two interceptions against Jacksonville. He also lost a fumble and was sacked three times.
Through three games, Maye has completed 51 of 80 passes for 585 yards, one touchdown and six interceptions. He has also lost one fumble. In 2025, he threw for 4,394 yards, 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 17 games, helping New England reach the playoffs.
The Patriots scored six points in Jacksonville, while Maye’s three turnovers contributed to the Jaguars’ early control and left New England chasing the game from the outset.