Gronkowski Predicts Drake Maye’s Rise with AJ Brown

Rob Gronkowski, the former tight end of the New England Patriots, shared insights on quarterback Drake Maye’s potential for growth in the upcoming NFL season. With the Patriots releasing Stefon Diggs after the Super Bowl LXI loss, they signed former Philadelphia Eagles star AJ Brown, enhancing Maye’s receiving options. Gronkowski believes Brown’s abilities will significantly benefit Maye’s performance.

“He’s kind of a player that reminds me of myself, but at the wide receiver position. A bigger body that knows how to use his body. He can get open even though he’s covered,” Gronkowski praised.

Gronkowski highlighted that Brown’s presence is expected to bring Maye’s game to new heights. Maye has never had a receiver of Brown’s stature and skill. Gronkowski stated, “Let’s see where Drake Maye can place the ball this year when AJ Brown is covered, to where only AJ Brown can go up and make the play and use his body and skill set to make that play.”

In discussing the potential impact, Gronkowski drew parallels to his partnership with Tom Brady, “It’s like Tom [Brady] throwing me open when I’m covered… Can Drake Maye do that with AJ Brown? If so, it’s gonna elevate this offense to a whole other level.”

Last season, Maye showcased his talent with 4,394 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions. He led all quarterbacks with a QBR of 77.1 and a passer rating of 113.5. AJ Brown joins the Patriots after a challenging season with the Eagles, contributing 1,003 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. The transition to New England offers Brown a fresh start under leadership familiar to him, including former Titans coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniel.

The Patriots anticipate strong performance in the AFC, needing to overcome formidable opponents like Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills, Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, and Patrick Mahomes with the Kansas City Chiefs. A successful collaboration between Maye and Brown could position the Patriots as even more formidable contenders than before.