Patriots select UNC QB Drake Maye with third overall pick in 2024 NFL draft

Mike Masala

Patriots select UNC QB Drake Maye with third overall pick in 2024 NFL draft image

The New England Patriots opted to remain at No. 3 overall in the 2024 NFL draft, and they've selected North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye.

Maye, 21, spent the last three seasons as a Tar Heel, starting the last two after the Washington Commanders drafted Sam Howell.

In 2022, Maye was named ACC Player of the Year, and he earned Second-team All-ACC honors this past season.

Over his three years at North Carolina, Maye appeared in 30 games, completing 64.9% of his passes for 8,018 yards, 63 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. He also rushed for 1,209 yards and another 16 scores.

Maye will eventually take over as New England's starting quarterback, possibly as early as Week 1 if new head coach Jerod Mayo sees fit.

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Mike Masala

Mike Masala Photo

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala