Uncertainty looms over the quarterback selections beyond the first pick as the NFL Draft approaches. Among the prospects under scrutiny is North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye, who some believe could be picked as high as No. 2.
However, former ESPN analyst and NFL fullback Merril Hoge has raised significant doubts about Maye"s potential success in the league.
In a recent interview on WCCO radio, Hoge expressed his concerns about Maye"s capabilities. “Drake Maye is the kind of player that will get you fired," Hoge asserted. “Especially if you draft him in the top five or top three, he’s going to get you fired."
Former ESPN analyst Merril Hoge sees QB Drake Maye as "the kind of player who will get you fired." https://t.co/RhE8VWjceM
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 7, 2024
Hoge compared Maye"s unpredictability to that of 2021 rookie Malik Willis, who was initially favored to be the first quarterback drafted but ended up being selected in the third round by the Titans.
“Willis might be the only guy that I can think of that is as erratic as Maye," Hoge remarked. “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."
“People think his athleticism will translate but people want him to run and they will bust him up," Hoge warned. “He is not athletic enough. If he doesn’t get down and learn how to do that, he won’t last until Week 10."
Hoge"s comments shed light on the tendency for quarterbacks to be overdrafted, with teams often taking risks in hopes of securing top talent.
However, Hoge remains adamant that Maye is not the solution for any team seeking a franchise quarterback. “The person responsible for taking him will be hearing, ‘See you later." Sooner than later," Hoge concluded.
