CHARLOTTE, N.C. — New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye offered strong support for head coach Mike Vrabel on Wednesday, describing him as “a great human being” and dismissing concerns that the coach’s recent personal controversies will impact the team’s upcoming season.
Speaking to reporters after participating in the Truist Championship Pro-Am golf tournament in Charlotte, where he played alongside PGA Tour professional Gary Woodland at Quail Hollow, Maye expressed confidence in his coach’s leadership.
“No, I don’t,” Maye responded when asked if Vrabel’s off-field situation would create team distractions. “I mean, he’s our head coach. I think he’s done a great job of talking to us and talking us through it. I’m just looking forward to getting back to work and getting ready.”
The Patriots coach became embroiled in controversy following the publication of photographs by the New York Post showing him with veteran NFL reporter Dianna Russini at an Arizona resort. On April 24, Vrabel publicly acknowledged responsibility for his behavior without discussing the specific details of the published images.
The controversy led Vrabel to miss the draft’s third day while attending counseling sessions. During his public statement, he admitted to having difficult discussions with those closest to him, including family members, players, and Patriots organization personnel.
“My previous actions don’t meet the standard that I hold myself to. They don’t,” Vrabel stated at the time.
When questioned about whether the team needs to move past these issues before the season begins, Maye remained optimistic about the situation resolving naturally.
“I think that’ll take care of itself,” Maye said. “I know he’s got the right mindset and I know he’s a great human being. I think he’s … like I said, I love playing for him.”
The quarterback, who was selected third overall in the 2024 draft and hails from nearby Huntersville, North Carolina, guided the Patriots to Super Bowl 60 during his sophomore campaign. His outstanding performance earned him second place in the 2025 AP NFL MVP voting, finishing behind Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Maye also commented on the recent legal resolution involving former Patriots teammate Stefon Diggs, who was cleared of assault charges related to an incident with his live-in personal chef.
The charges originated from a December 2 altercation at Diggs’ Massachusetts residence, where Jamila Adams claimed the receiver struck and choked her during a dispute. Diggs had entered not guilty pleas to both felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery charges.
After less than two hours of deliberation, a jury found Diggs not guilty on all counts. While the acquittal removes legal obstacles to his return to football, the four-time Pro Bowl receiver could still face potential NFL disciplinary action.
“Well, you know, he’s always been a great teammate to me and I know he’ll do great things,” Maye commented about Diggs. “I was fortunate enough to have a year with him, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens to him. He’s a great player.”
Regarding the shoulder problem that troubled him during the latter part of last season, Maye reported being in excellent health and confirmed he avoided surgical intervention.
“Nothing, nothing, no problems at all,” the quarterback said, indicating his shoulder has fully recovered.
The Patriots are scheduled to begin their three-day rookie minicamp on Friday at their Foxborough, Massachusetts facility.
