FOXBOROUGH – During the Patriots ’ first Super Bowl 60 practice, the media watched Drake Maye run, stretch, and even act like a referee on Thursday.
During the open portion of practice, the media didn’t see the Patriots quarterback throw the ball.
That wouldn’t be a big deal in most weeks. However, this week, it was revealed that Maye suffered an injury to his right throwing shoulder . The second-year player was listed as limited in Wednesday’s hypothetical practice report. On Thursday, Maye said he hopes to be close to 100% by the Super Bowl and said he isn’t surprised that so many people are concerned about his health.
“Was I surprised? No, I wouldn’t say I was surprised,” Maye said. “It’s the right shoulder of a starting quarterback on an NFL team. It’s pretty simple.”
The internet was ablaze this week when former Los Angeles Chargers team physician David J. Chao posted a video speculating that Maye suffered an injury to his right shoulder. The play happened at 3:46 of the third quarter when Maye ran out of the pocket and landed hard on his right shoulder while being tackled.
The quarterback was then seen rotating his arm and adjusting his shoulder pad. This week, Maye was listed on the injury report, and on Thursday, Mike Vrabel said it’s a new injury for his quarterback.
On Thursday, Maye didn’t seem concerned about his health.
“I feel good,” Maye said. “Got out there, moving around for a good bit today. We did a jog through, so I’m feeling good and looking forward to being ready to go. This is the game you dream of playing, so looking forward to getting out there and playing in the Super Bowl.
“I’m just trying to do whatever I can to get back to 100%,” Maye added. “I think a lot of people in that locker room would say the same thing. Having a two-week break is nice to rest a little more and get to know the Seahawks as good as I can.”
The quarterback noted that after the media departed the Patriots’ practice facility, he did throw the ball in practice. Maye said the injury won’t affect his ability to throw the ball against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60.
“No, I don’t think so,” Maye said. “I think that’s why you spend time and why you have good trainers. It’s one of those things where it’s a long season, and sometimes things show up. I do whatever I can to feel 100%. I’m sure I’ll get, if not there, as close as you can, 99%. Make sure I’m throwing and do whatever I can to help the team win.”
The concern over Maye’s shoulder likely won’t die down. That will happen when you’re a starting quarterback on the injury report two weeks before the biggest game of the season.
That’s why all eyes were on Maye during Thursday’s practice. The quarterback ran, stretched and then stood underneath the field goal posts, where he signaled if Andy Borregales ’ kicks were good.
In those moments, Maye lifted up both arms - with no issue.
The quarterback also noted that during the AFC Championship, he needed to use his right arm on his final play.
“I was able to catch the edge and give a little stiff arm, try to make a play,” Maye said. “My shoulder’s doing just fine.”
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