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Patriots' Maye Misses Practice; Dobbs Steps Up

1/31/2026

42 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Maye's Practice Absence

Drake Maye, the New England Patriots quarterback, missed Friday practice due to illness and a right shoulder injury sustained in the AFC Championship Game.
He leads the NFL with a 72% completion rate this season.
Coach Mike Vrabel said Maye would have practiced if not for the illness.
Backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs took first-team reps in Maye's absence as the team prepares for the game in California.

History

Historical Context

The AFC Championship Game, established in 1970 after the NFL-AFL merger, has seen the New England Patriots dominate with 11 titles, including their first in 2001. Quarterback Tom Brady's 68.7% completion rate that season set a standard for excellence. Today, quarterbacks like Drake Maye continue this legacy, while teams face ongoing challenges with injuries impacting playoff success.

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Maye's Practice Absence

Drake Maye, the New England Patriots quarterback, missed Friday practice due to illness and a right shoulder injury sustained in the AFC Championship Game.
He leads the NFL with a 72% completion rate this season.
Coach Mike Vrabel said Maye would have practiced if not for the illness.
Backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs took first-team reps in Maye's absence as the team prepares for the game in California.

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