Patriots back up QB Mae Vrabel, not worried about distraction

Charlotte, NC — New England Patriots quarterback Drake is the mother Mike Vrabel called “a great man” and said he doesn’t believe the coach’s off-field issues will be a distraction for the defending AFC champions this coming season.

“No, I don’t,” said the mother. “I mean, he’s our head coach. I think he’s done a great job talking to us and talking us through it. I’m just looking forward to getting back to work and getting ready.”

May spoke to The Associated Press on Wednesday after the Truest Championship Pro-Am in Charlotte where he was associated with the PGA Tour Pro. Gary Woodland On the back nine at Quail Hollow.

Vrabel has been embroiled in controversy since the New York Post published a photo of him with longtime NFL reporter Diana Rusini at a resort in Arizona. Vrabel said on April 24 that he was taking responsibility for his actions without specifically addressing the photos.

Vrabel missed the third day of the draft to attend counseling.

Vrabel said he had to have difficult conversations with those he cares about most, including his family, his team and members of the Patriots organization. He added that, “My past actions don’t meet the standards I hold myself to. They don’t.”

Asked if the issues are something the Patriots need to put behind them before the season, Maye said, “I think it will take care of itself.”

“I know he’s got the right mindset and I know he’s a great person,” May added. “I think he… like I said, I love playing for him.”

Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, who grew up in nearby Huntersville, North Carolina, led the Patriots to a Super Bowl 60 appearance in his second season. He was the runner up Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford for the AP NFL MVP Award in 2025.

Maye also addressed a former Patriots teammate Stefon Diggs‘ was acquitted of assaulting his live-in personal chef.

The charges stem from a Dec. 2 incident at his Massachusetts home, in which Jamila Adams testified that Diggs slapped and choked her during an argument.

Diggs pleaded not guilty to an aggravated strangulation charge and a misdemeanor assault and battery charge. The jury deliberated for less than two hours before clearing Diggs of all charges. The court acquittal clears the way for the four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver to return to the field, though he could still face discipline from the NFL.

“Well, you know, he’s always been a great teammate to me and I know he’s going to do great things,” Maye said. “I’m fortunate to have a year with him, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens with him. He’s a great player.”

After a shoulder injury hampered him last season, May said he was doing “great”.

“Nothing, nothing, no problem,” Maye said, adding that she didn’t need surgery.

The Patriots will host a three-day rookie minicamp beginning Friday in Foxboro, Massachusetts.