The first year of the post-Bill Belichick era did not go very well for the New England Patriots. They were pretty much a mess from start to finish and they ended the year with the NFL's fourth-worst record.

After just eleven NFL starts, Drake Maye has been crowned the next franchise quarterback in New England. It is easy to be excited about a 22-year-old with the incredible raw talent and natural leadership that Maye showed in 2024.

After the Patriots selected Will Campbell with the No. 4 overall pick, the offensive tackle said he's ready to "fight and die to protect [Maye] with everything I've got." Hearing that quote from the rookie had Maye ready for the season to start.