Former NFL star’s scathing verdict on draft prospect Drake Maye

Quarterbacks are set to dominate the early stages of this month’s NFL Draft. 

Caleb Williams is the presumptive first-overall selection to the Chicago Bears, while most mock drafts have Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye competing for the second and third slots.

The number of QB-needy teams this offseason means that it would be a huge surprise if North Carolina signal-caller Maye does not go in the opening few picks, but former NFL fullback and ESPN analyst Merril Hoge has a warning for the 21-year-old’s suitors. 

“Drake Maye is the kind of player that will get you fired,” was his blunt opinion in an interview with WCCO radio. 

“Especially if you draft him in the top five or top three, he’s going to get you fired.”

Hoge drew comparisons with Malik Willis, who was drafted by the Titans in 2021’s third round after many predicted him to be the first quarterback taken. Willis is now fighting for the Tennessee backup role. 

“Willis might be the only guy that I can think of that is as erratic as Maye,” Hoge said. “I studied him for two years. His last game against [North Carolina State] was probably the most embarrassing display I’ve seen from a guy who is supposed to be an elite franchise quarterback. He’s erratic. He’s everywhere.”

Another area of Maye’s game that concerns Hoge is how he used his athleticism. 

“People think his athleticism will translate but people want him to run and they will bust him up,” Hoge added. “He is not athletic enough. If he doesn’t get down and learn how to do that, he won’t last until Week 10.”

Live on DAZN PPV: Haney vs. Garcia on April 20. Click here for details.