Vrabel Rejects Report of Rift With Patriots Quarterback Maye

New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said Wednesday that quarterback Drake Maye was a major reason he chose to take the job, rejecting a radio host’s account of an alleged rift between the two. The claim was attributed to an unnamed insider and has not been independently established in the available reporting. Asked about Greg Hill’s account that Maye was not Vrabel’s preferred quarterback and that there was an issue between them, Vrabel questioned the sourcing and said he had other coaching options but wanted to come to New England because Maye was the quarterback. His remarks establish his public position; they do not independently resolve whether there is tension in their working relationship. Maye has not provided an on-record response in the supplied accounts. The allegation surfaced as the Patriots worked through a difficult start to the 2026 season. Through three games, Maye had thrown six interceptions and one touchdown pass, according to reports. New England was 1-2, with a loss to Seattle, a win over Pittsburgh and a loss to Jacksonville.