Drake Maye's Shoulder Got 'Dinged,' Patriots' McDaniels Says amid Injury Concerns

After Drake Maye's surprise appearance on the injury report this week, New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels spoke about the shoulder issue for his star quarterback.

McDaniels told reporters on Thursday that Maye's shoulder got "dinged" in the Patriots' 35-6 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 3.

Maye was listed as a full participant in Wednesday's practice and doesn't appear to be in any danger of missing this week's game against the Buffalo Bills.

An ugly start to the season in which Maye has thrown six interceptions to one touchdown has led to discussion this week about the relationship between the Patriots quarterback and head coach Mike Vrabel.

After WEEI's Greg Hill said on the radio earlier this week there are rumblings of an "issue" between the two, both Maye and Vrabel have downplayed things.

Vrabel told reporters on Wednesday that Maye was the reason he originally took the Patriots' head-coaching job in January 2025.

Maye said after Wednesday's practice that Vrabel is "one of the best football coaches I've had in my life" and he loves playing for him.

During the same press conference, Maye also downplayed that his shoulder is going to be a hindrance of any kind.

"I wouldn't say there is a problem with my shoulder," Maye said. "You're going to get banged up every now and then, but at the same time, a lot of guys are banged up."

Maye has been at the center of the offensive issues in New England so far this season. The offense has committed eight turnovers through three games, with him responsible for seven of them (six interceptions, one lost fumble).

During his MVP runner-up campaign in 2025, Maye had a total of 11 turnovers in 17 regular-season games. He has been sacked three times in each of the first three games this season.

Some of the issues can be attributed to a receiver room that desperately needs A.J. Brown back healthy. Mack Hollins currently leads the team with 12 receptions and 156 receiving yards.

A victory over the undefeated Bills would definitely do a lot to calm the fears bubbling up in New England right now. It would also put the Patriots right back in the mix in the AFC East.

The Patriots (1-2) and Bills (3-0) will kickoff from Highmark Stadium on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.