Watch: Bill Belichick reacts to Patriots drafting Drake Maye

Bill Belichick. Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Bill Belichick has cold reaction to Patriots' selection of QB Drake Maye

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 4/26/24

Former New England Patriots head coach and future Hall of Famer Bill Belichick isn't known as the cheeriest person around. Still, even he sounded relatively unenthusiastic about his former team's selection of North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye at No. 3 overall in the first round of Thursday's NFL Draft.

When asked his opinion on Maye, Belichick's initial response was to point out that he played a position of need for the Patriots, which isn't exactly a ringing endorsement.

"This is one of the top needs," Belichick said.

Bill Belichick shares his thoughts on Drake Maye getting drafted to the Patriots on the @PatMcAfeeShow ✍️ pic.twitter.com/IXvggwA7Mh
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) April 26, 2024

Then, Belichick lightly criticized Maye for often comparing himself to Buffalo Bills two-time Pro Bowler Josh Allen.

"We'll see about that," Belichick said. "I think there are some similarities in terms of size and athleticism — Josh Allen is a pretty special player, now."

As if that wasn't enough, after briefly reviewing some of Maye's positive plays, Belichick highlighted a few weaknesses, including his tendency to bail out of the pocket early while giving up on receiver routes too early.

It wasn't all bad. Belichick called Maye talented and lauded him for his size, running ability and arm strength. Overall, the legendary ball coach believes the former ACC Player of the Year has the traits to be a successful starting quarterback in the NFL, but he still has concerns.

"He really doesn't have a lot of experience," Belichick said. "He makes some big plays — he's going to need some work in reading defenses, reading coverages."

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