Mike Vrabel Gives Update on QB Drake Maye’s Injury

The New England Patriots suffered a 35-10 loss to the Detroit Lions during a game played in Munich, Germany. Quarterback Drake Maye exited the match in the first quarter with an ankle injury and did not return to the game. Backup Tommy DeVito completed the game for the Patriots. The Lions' defensive end, Aidan Hutchinson, tackled Maye, causing him to stumble and Hutchinson subsequently complained of a knee injury, ruling him out of the contest.

Following the game, Patriots coach Mike Vrabel sought an update on Maye's injury status, but the team had not yet received an official diagnosis. Vrabel revealed that the team will need to run additional tests upon their return to the United States to assess the severity of Maye's ankle injury. The positive aspect for the Patriots is that they are entering a bye week, providing Maye with extra time to heal based on the severity of his injury.

New England's next game is a Sunday Night Football matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on November 29th.

Vrabel was subsequently questioned about whether Maye's absence was a significant factor in the Patriots' lopsided defeat. The coach did not attribute the loss to Maye's absence, arguing that the team has numerous issues to address during the bye week across all positions. He emphasized that while Maye's participation might have been beneficial, it is unlikely to have made a substantial difference.

Vrabel stressed that the Patriots must improve their fundamentals, running the ball, catching open receivers, protecting their quarterback, tackling, and generating third-down stops and turnovers. The bye week is crucial for the Patriots if they aim to improve their 5-5 season record and avoid missing the playoffs the following year.