Bill Simmons Blames Mike Vrabel's Personal Drama for Drake Maye's Struggles
Podcaster Bill Simmons suggests the New England Patriots coach's off-field issues are impacting quarterback Drake Maye's performance.
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is experiencing a difficult start to the season, drawing criticism from podcaster Bill Simmons, who attributes some of the struggles to head coach Mike Vrabel's personal life.
Following a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Maye's performance has been a focal point. He threw for 208 yards and an interception in the game. Head coach Mike Vrabel deflected questions about his concern for Maye's play, stating his focus is on winning games.
"Drake Maye has been a mess. He just has," Simmons said on his podcast. He noted that Maye's performance at the end of the previous year was attributed to injury, but his current struggles appear different. Maye has underthrown deep passes, including a potential touchdown in Week 1 against the Seahawks.
Simmons also speculated that Vrabel's off-field activities may be affecting his coaching. "Post-Sedona Mike Vrabel?" Simmons questioned, referencing reports of Vrabel's affair with NFL reporter Dianna Russini. "I wouldn’t say he’s as crisp. There’s some clock management stuff that I’m like, ‘Oh, Vrabel doesn’t usually miss that stuff.'"
Vrabel's personal life became public earlier this year when photos surfaced of him with Russini at a hotel in Sedona, Arizona. Vrabel subsequently missed the third day of the NFL Draft to attend marriage counseling with his wife.
Adding to the Patriots' challenges, wide receiver A.J. Brown is out indefinitely with an ankle injury. The team's offensive line has also been impacted by the loss of guard Mike Onwenu, who broke his ankle and is out indefinitely. The Steelers' defense pressured Maye seven times, including three sacks.
Simmons also commented on Vrabel's usage of offensive playmakers, noting that running backs Treyveon Henderson and Kyle Williams have seen limited action despite fumbles from Rhamondre Stevenson and a need for deep threats with Brown sidelined.
The Patriots face the Jacksonville Jaguars next, followed by a matchup against the Buffalo Bills, potentially facing a 1-3 start to the season if their performance does not improve.