Established star quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, and Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens were expected to headline the 2025 Pro Bowl rosters. However, as in years past, notable names have declined participation — even if they aren’t playing in the Super Bowl.
That’s where Drake Maye comes in. The New England Patriots signal-caller has been named an alternate for Jackson, who bowed out from the annual event after a deep playoff run.
Maye’s selection is raising eyebrows across the league. While he showed flashes during his rookie season, few expected him to be honored alongside some of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. So, how did Maye earn this opportunity?
Injury to Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson Opens Door for New England Patriots’ Drake Maye
After another dynamic season, Jackson was initially set to participate in the Pro Bowl. However, after dealing with knee and back injuries throughout the season, Jackson withdrew from the trip to Orlando.
Maye was next in line with several AFC quarterbacks either opting out or being unavailable due to the Super Bowl (Houston Texans’ C.J. Stroud, Denver Broncos’ Bo Nix, Mahomes). Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson is stepping in as Allen’s replacement.
Maye’s Impressive Rookie Season With Patriots
While some would say Maye’s selection was a process of elimination, it is a testament to his rookie season performance. When the Patriots selected him in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, expectations were high, but few thought he would make an immediate impact.
Though his debut campaign was a mixed bag, Maye exceeded expectations, positioning him as a potential franchise quarterback. New England, coming off a disappointing 2023 season, needed stability at quarterback after the failure of the Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe experiments. Despite initial questions about his readiness, he quickly adapted to the NFL and improved each week.
But Maye’s inexperience was evident at times. Turnovers were an issue, with interceptions and fumbles slowing the offense’s progress. He didn’t get much help from his supporting cast, including a league-worst offensive line. Entering 2024, many weren’t sure how many games he would start, let alone that he’d finish the year in the top 20 of PFN’s QB+ metrics. Maye finished the season with 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.
While Maye’s Pro Bowl nod may have been unexpected, being named to the Pro Bowl as a rookie should be a confidence boost for the 22-year-old.