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Beyond Drake Maye: Why New England’s Real Offensive Problems Lie Elsewhere
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- Beyond Drake Maye: Why New England’s Real Offensive Problems Lie Elsewhere
The New England Patriots offense has not looked good through two games, and contrary to popular belief, Patriots Insider Phil Perry, believes that quarterback Drake Maye is the least of the offense's concerns .
"For the Patriots' offense, big picture, I feel like Drake Maye honestly is at the bottom," said Perry. "I would be looking at the line, and I'd be looking at the receivers, and I'd be saying those guys need to get on their details."
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Alijah Vera-Tucker
One of New England 's biggest issues in the last playoff run was the offensive line. In the offseason, the Patriots made a concerted effort to address it by signing former Jets left guard Alijah Vera-Tucker.
Alijah Vera-Tucker this season has been middle of the pack. Through two games, he has allowed 5 total pressures in pass protection, which has led to his 32nd-ranked Pro Football Focus grade of 63.1. In his first year in Josh McDaniels' system, some growing pains are expected, and given the money New England has invested in him to be their left guard for three years, $42 million, he will have every chance to overcome his early-season woes.
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Romeo Doubs
The list of new healthy Patriots receivers starts and ends with Romeo Doubs , who signed a 4-year, $68 million contract with New England this offseason. Doubs was expected to come in and be the team's No. 2 receiver behind A.J. Brown . But after Brown went down with an injury, Doubs has been a mixed bag.
Against the Seahawks, he provided nothing and is best known for his key drop. Conversely, during New England's home opener, he showed signs of life, highlighted by a key 63-yard catch with the offense backed up toward their own end zone.
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Both Vera-Tucker and Doubs are too good as players to let their early season misfortunes last long term. And given the amount of money dedicated to each player, they will have every opportunity to find their footing in New England's offensive scheme.
As the offense heads on the road to take on the Jaguars this week and the Bills next week, look for both players to rewrite their 2026 script and become the major contributors Josh McDaniels envisioned they would be.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
