Patriots-Commanders Preview: Can Drake Maye Win the QB Job?

As the Patriots prepare to face the Commanders in their preseason finale, several players will be vying for attention and fighting for their spots on the roster.

With the quarterback position still up for grabs, rookie Drake Maye will be under the microscope. Although it’s unlikely he’ll win the starting job just yet, a strong performance could accelerate his rise up the depth chart.

Maye’s ability to handle pressure will be particularly noteworthy, as it’s an area where Jacoby Brissett currently has an edge. If Maye can close the gap, he’ll be well on his way to taking over the starting job sooner rather than later.

Jalynn Polk, Wide Receiver

Jalynn Polk’s situation bears some resemblance to Maye’s. The Patriots seem to be taking a patient approach to developing their young receiver, but Polk has shown flashes of brilliance this summer.

Despite being relegated to second-team reps behind DeMario Douglas and K.J. Osborn, Polk has looked like the team’s most dependable receiver at times. A strong outing against the Commanders could propel him into the starting lineup.

Brian Hasty, Running Back

The Patriots’ running back depth chart is still uncertain, with Kevin Harris and Brian Hasty vying for the third spot. While Harris has looked like the assumed No. 3 for much of the summer, Hasty’s receiving skills and shiftiness in the open field could give him an edge.

If Eliot Wolf decides to keep only three running backs on the 53-man roster, Hasty’s performance against the Commanders could be the deciding factor.

Atonio Moulton, Center

The Patriots’ backup center situation is still uncertain, with Atonio Moulton’s standing on shaky ground. While he has value as a veteran interior backup, the Patriots may be looking for more dependable depth behind David Andrews.

If there are any issues with the center-to-quarterback exchange during the game, the Patriots may need to reassess their depth chart.

Trevor Robinson, Guard

Rookie fourth-rounder Trevor Robinson has been one of the team’s most impressive rookies this summer, and his recent reps with the top offense have been encouraging.

With Vederian Lowe injured, Robinson has stepped in and looked comfortable at right guard. A strong performance against the Commanders could solidify his spot as a starter.

Dell Pettus, Safety

Undrafted free agent Dell Pettus has been one of the team’s most promising young players, and he finished the week seeing time with top defenders.

Jerod Mayo praised Pettus, saying he’s done a “fantastic job” up until this point. If Pettus can continue to make plays and boost his confidence, he could find himself on the initial 53-man roster.

Other defensive players, including safety Josh Bledsoe, corners Shaun Wade and Isaiah Bolden, and linebacker Joe Giles-Harris, are also vying for jobs and will be worth keeping an eye on during the game.