The art of the scramble drill: how the Patriots capitalize on QB Drake Maye’s superpower

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has emerged as the NFL's leading out-of-structure playmaker this season on extended drop-backs lasting four or more seconds. According to NextGen Stats, Maye leads 33 qualified quarterbacks in completions with 21, passing yards with 449, passer rating at 132.7, and EPA per play at +0.40. Overall, Maye has generated +17.4 total EPA on scramble drills, far outpacing the next closest quarterback.

Head coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels have actively integrated scramble drills into practice to hone off-script success. Maye's pass-catchers, including DeMario Douglas, Efton Chism III, and tight end Hunter Henry, work on mirroring his movements and maintaining deep, intermediate, and outlet options whenever plays break down.