Relying in your purview, the New England Patriots are in prime place heading into their season finale, as they’re in pole place for the 2025 NFL Draft’s No. 1 total decide.

For rookie head coach Jerod Mayo, nonetheless, the main focus is on ending the 2024 marketing campaign on a optimistic word when the Pats play the Buffalo Payments on Sunday.

Thusly, rookie first-round quarterback Drake Maye will begin if wholesome on Sunday together with the remainder of his starters.

“Drake is our beginning quarterback,” Mayo mentioned Wednesday, by way of staff transcript. “If he is wholesome and able to go, as we undergo this week of follow, then he’ll play.”

Maye, talking after Mayo, mentioned he is “making ready like I am the starter.”

In a Week 17 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, Maye was evaluated for a concussion however returned to the sport. Nonetheless he was listed as restricted within the staff’s follow report resulting from a proper hand damage. NFL Community Insider Ian Rapoport reported Maye suffered a finger damage towards the Chargers.

“I really feel nice,” Maye mentioned. “I awoke feeling good, thank the nice Lord. It is one other day to get out right here, and I am trying ahead to getting on the market Sunday.”

In a dreary season for the Patriots, Maye, the No. 3 total decide within the 2024 draft, has been a significant shiny spot.

Regardless of Maye’s burgeoning potential and play, New England is 3-13 and a loss to the Payments would safe the Patriots the No. 1 total choice. Nonetheless, an upset win towards Buffalo may drop New England out of the highest 4.

Mayo’s unconcerned with draft positioning it will appear.

“I’ve by no means been part of a staff, as a participant or as a coach, going right into a sport not desirous to win,” Mayo mentioned. “It isn’t going to alter as we speak, in order that’s my message to the staff.”

Moreover, Mayo expressed that as disenchanting because the season’s been, he believes it is step one in rebuilding the franchise.

“I feel it is necessary to recollect the place you’re within the journey, and nobody’s pleased with our document or something like that,” he mentioned. “Understanding the place you’re within the journey is certainly necessary.”

Maye and Co. will hit the sphere Sunday with a fourth win and the No. 1 decide within the steadiness.