Overview
- Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels confirmed that NFL defenses have adjusted to Maye’s 2025 breakout and are changing how they line up against him.
- Film and coverage metrics show two‑high or split‑safety shells on just over half of Maye’s recent dropbacks, with Seattle using that look on 57 percent of plays in the opener.
- In the season opener Maye led 10-0 early but threw three interceptions on downfield attempts late after abandoning the underneath approach.
- New England’s running game produced 62 yards on 24 carries in Week 1 and ranked last in the league in rush EPA, undermining the usual way to pull a safety down into the box.
- The Patriots’ upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers is the immediate chance to demonstrate whether a more disciplined plan and improved rushing can force defenses to reopen Maye’s vertical options.