New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye missed Friday’s practice because he was ill, creating another interruption in his Super Bowl prep against the Seattle Seahawks. Coach Mike Vrabel said Maye was not present during the limited portion of practice open to the media; the absence followed a day when Maye’s on-field work was curtailed by a shoulder issue, and both factors kept him off the field Friday.
Maye was still at the team facility and took part in meetings. Vrabel noted Maye threw during Thursday’s session and responded well, adding that he likely would have practiced Friday if not for the illness. The coach downplayed concerns about Maye’s availability, saying several players have gotten sick over the past month or so and that the staff has been managing illness carefully to avoid wider spread.
The Patriots will conduct their final Massachusetts practice on Friday before flying to Santa Clara, Calif., to begin Super Bowl week. Maye said Thursday he’s feeling good and is focused on being ready for the game, calling the Super Bowl an opportunity he’s long dreamed of.
Fan Take: This matters because a quarterback’s health is critical heading into the Super Bowl—any missed practice time can shake up timing and prep. If Maye can avoid further setbacks, the team should be fine, but lingering illness or injury could alter game plans and give the Seahawks a potential edge.
