FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. Maye's growth: The Patriots' voluntary offseason program enters a new phase this week with organized team activities. Wednesday will provide the first look at quarterback Drake Maye and Co. in full-team drills (albeit not in full pads).
Veteran tight end Hunter Henry recently pointed out what he believes is an overlooked aspect of Maye.
"I think the underrated thing he has this year is obviously going into Year 2 in the system is big," Henry said shortly after players reported for workouts six weeks ago. "This system demands a lot on the quarterback position. To have a whole offseason to be in the same scheme and really build on what he did last year, I'm excited to see the jump and progress he can make on a day-to-day basis."
Maye was the MVP runner-up last year in his first season playing under coordinator Josh McDaniels, completing 72% of his passes with 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions in the regular season before dipping in the playoffs against some of the NFL's top defenses.
Maye possibly improving on his MVP level from last year is one of the top reasons for team-based optimism despite a tougher schedule, which includes seven of the first 11 games on the road.