Wide receiver A.J. Brown finished his second week of Patriots practice after the June 1 trade and praised rookie quarterback Drake Maye. At mandatory minicamp Brown highlighted Maye’s poise, noting the 23‑year‑old reads blitzes and hot routes instantly. Both players see the connection as a “great start,” planning extra sessions before training camp opens July 25 to spark a high‑octane passing attack.

During a red‑zone drill Maye slipped, landing hard with a defender, but rose quickly with a teammate’s help. Coach Mike Vrabel halted practice twenty minutes early, yet Maye stayed on field, tossing additional passes. The veteran‑like rally earned Maye praise, “What a player… great teammate,” reinforcing his leadership image. Teammates rallied around the quarterback, reinforcing his confidence now.

Brown’s highlight reel includes a last‑second touchdown catch in the back left corner, keeping both feet in bounds as Maye delivered the final pass of minicamp. The play sparked excitement across the locker room, with Brown already featured on next‑day SportsCenter. Their early chemistry gives New England a boost as the offense rebuilds for 2026 and could rank among league’s top aerial units.