New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is adapting his offense to fit second-year quarterback Drake Maye, and according to Brian Hines of Pats Pulpit, it should be all about using Maye's athleticism as a weapon.
"I would like McDaniels to deemphasize is his under center rate," Hines said. "McDaniels should do his best to take advantage of the QB’s dual threat ability and get him [Maye] on the move."
That means less under the center looks for the young QB, who primarily worked out of the shotgun during his time at the University of North Carolina. But even from under center, there are ways to utilize Maye's dual-threat ability.
"McDaniels occasionally showed the possibility of moving the pocket on bootlegs and rollouts while in Vegas," Hines said. "It never was a key part of his scheme with quarterbacks like Mac Jones and Derek Carr, but his new QB in New England is a natural on the move."
Maye averaged 7.8 yards per rush in 2024; that number is terrific for any player, but especially a QB. Hines believes that if McDaniels adds designed quarterback runs, it can open up explosive play opportunities with RPOs and the run game in general.
The Patriots' offensive line has also been questionable in recent years, to say the least. The additions of center Garrett Bradbury and right tackle Morgan Moses through free agency, and fourth overall pick left tackle Will Campbell, should give a much-needed boost.
However, Bradbury and Moses are both aging players, and Campbell is a rookie. The line play will not be perfect, so Hines' insistence on getting Maye on the move could also help cover up potential issues.
