Charlotte, NC — new England Patriots quarterback drake may Called Mike Vrabel “a great guy” and said he doesn’t believe the coach’s off-field issues will be a distraction for the defending AFC champions this upcoming season.
“No, I don’t know,” May said. “I mean, he’s our head coach. I think he’s done a great job talking to us. I’m just looking forward to getting back to work and getting ready.”
Mays spoke to The Associated Press after the Truist Championship Pro-Am in Charlotte on Wednesday, pairing him with a PGA Tour pro. gary woodland On the back nine at Quail Hollow.
Vrabel has been embroiled in controversy since the New York Post published photos of him with longtime NFL reporter Diana Russini at an Arizona resort. Vrabel said on April 24 that he was taking accountability for his actions, without providing specifics about the photos.
Vrabel missed the third day of the draft to participate in counseling.
Vrabel said he had to have difficult conversations with the people he cared about most, including his family, his team and members of the Patriots organization. He further stated that, “My past actions do not meet the standard I hold myself to. They don’t.”
Asked if the issues were something the Patriots would have to put behind them before the season, Mayes said, “I think it’ll take care of itself.”
“I know he’s in the right mindset and I know he’s a great person,” Mays said. “I think he…like I said, I love playing for him.”
Mays, the third pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who grew up in nearby Huntersville, North Carolina, led the Patriots to an appearance in Super Bowl 60 in his second season. he was the runner up Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford Up for the AP NFL MVP Award in 2025.
Mays also addressed former Patriots teammates stefon diggs‘ was acquitted of charges that he had assaulted his live-in personal chef.
The charges stem from a December 2 incident at his Massachusetts home, where Jamila Adams testified that Diggs slapped and choked her during an argument.
Diggs had pleaded not guilty to a charge of aggravated strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery charges. The jury deliberated for less than two hours before acquitting Diggs of all charges. The acquittal in court clears the way for the four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver to return to the field, although he could still face discipline from the NFL.
“Well, you know, he’s always been a great teammate to me, and I know he’ll do great things,” Mays said. “I was fortunate enough to spend a year with him, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens with him. He’s a great player.”
As for the shoulder injury that plagued him last season, Mays said he is doing “pretty good.”
“Nothing, nothing, no problem,” Mays said, adding that he did not need surgery.
The Patriots will host a three-day rookie minicamp starting Friday in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
