Wed Jan 29 00:30:00 IST 2025: ## Patriots Should Emulate Eagles’ RPO Strategy for Rookie QB Drake Maye, Analyst Suggests

**Foxborough, MA** – The success of New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye hinges on his development, and a key strategy could be borrowing a page from the Philadelphia Eagles’ playbook, according to Patriots.com Senior Reporter Evan Lazar. Lazar suggests implementing the Eagles’ highly effective run-pass option (RPO) package for Maye, mirroring the system that propelled Jalen Hurts to Super Bowl contention.

Lazar points to the Eagles’ success, noting they lead the NFL in RPO usage (22% of plays). Former NFL quarterback and Fox Sports analyst Chase Daniel highlighted how the Eagles’ RPOs create easy scoring opportunities for Hurts, including quick throws and designed quarterback runs. This strategy, Lazar argues, could significantly benefit Maye by simplifying his reads, improving down-and-distance situations, and reducing turnovers.

Maye’s dual-threat abilities, proven during his college career at North Carolina, make him a natural fit for an RPO-heavy scheme. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has experience calling similar plays, particularly during his time with Cam Newton in 2020. While the Patriots’ supporting cast doesn’t match the Eagles’ star-studded lineup, adopting the RPO strategy could mitigate Maye’s rookie struggles (10 interceptions, 34 sacks).

The strategy also leverages Maye’s rushing prowess (7.8 yards per carry, 22 first downs in his rookie year). Increased designed runs would enhance his offensive contributions and keep defenses guessing. Although Maye lacks the elite personnel around Hurts, the Patriots could potentially address this by adding a big-bodied receiver to complement Maye’s skillset.

While the Patriots may not replicate the Eagles’ success perfectly, adopting a similar RPO approach offers a viable path to accelerating Maye’s development and maximizing his potential in his second NFL season.

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