Drake Maye, the former standout quarterback from the University of North Carolina, has rapidly become a household name in the football world.
Selected as the 3rd overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, he is poised to carve his path as an elite quarterback in the league.
As both fans and analysts dissect his talent and potential, one of the most frequently asked questions about Maye pertains to his physical attributes, particularly his height.
This blog will answer the much-debated question about his height and explore how his stature, career achievements, and off-the-field persona have contributed to his meteoric rise.
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ToggleWho Is Drake Maye?
Drake Maye isn’t just an NFL rookie; he’s a natural-born athlete with sports running deep in his veins. Born on August 30, 2002, in Huntersville, North Carolina, Maye grew up in a family deeply rooted in athletics.
His father, Mark Maye, was a quarterback at North Carolina, while his brother Luke is remembered as a Tar Heel basketball legend for his iconic buzzer-beater that propelled UNC into the Final Four.
Drake attended Myers Park High School in Charlotte, where he excelled in both football and basketball, earning recognition as North Carolina’s Player of the Year.
Despite initially committing to Alabama, he reversed course to stay closer to home and play at North Carolina—a decision that would set the stage for his college football dominance.
At UNC, Maye emerged as a record-setting quarterback in his redshirt freshman year, earning accolades like ACC Player of the Year and setting a school record with 4,321 passing yards in a single season. His performance earned him the nickname “the next big thing,” and his selection as the 3rd overall pick in the NFL affirmed his potential as an elite quarterback.
How Tall is Drake Maye?
Drake Maye stands at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters) tall. This puts him among the taller quarterbacks in the NFL, alongside players like Jared Goff and Aaron Rodgers. His height provides him with several key advantages on the field, including better visibility over the offensive line and the ability to make precise throws from the pocket.
When compared to his contemporaries, Maye’s height stands out as a classic feature of a prototypical NFL quarterback.
Tall quarterbacks often have an edge when it comes to surveying the field and avoiding batted-down passes at the line of scrimmage. For Maye, his stature, combined with his exceptional arm strength, makes him a formidable presence in the pocket.
Drake Maye’s Athletic Build
Drake Maye doesn’t just rely on his height—his athletic build plays a significant role in his game. At 225 pounds (102 kg), he strikes a balance between durability and mobility. This combination allows him to absorb hits while making plays on the move.
At the 2024 NFL Combine, Maye’s physical attributes turned heads. With a 9 1/8-inch hand size, he met the benchmarks often associated with elite quarterbacks, as hand size plays a role in ball control and throw velocity. Scouts also noticed his ability to escape pressure and make off-platform throws, highlighting his versatility as a modern QB.
College Career Highlights
Drake Maye’s college career at the University of North Carolina is a testament to his talent and work ethic. Here are a few key highlights:
- 2022 Season (Redshirt Freshman Year):
- Passing stats: 4,321 yards, 38 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions.
- Rushing stats: 698 yards and 7 touchdowns.
- Named ACC Player of the Year and ACC Offensive Player of the Year.
- Led the nation in total offense with 5,019 yards and broke UNC’s single-season records for passing yards and touchdowns.
- 2023 Season:
- Passing stats: 3,608 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions.
- Rushing stats: Improved versatility with 449 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns.
- Named to the second-team All-ACC roster.
From leading the Tar Heels to an ACC Championship Game to dazzling fans with his dual-threat capabilities, Maye cemented his place as one of college football’s best quarterbacks.
Transition to the NFL
Maye’s NFL career began with high expectations. Drafted by the New England Patriots as the 3rd overall pick, he was immediately identified as the team’s potential franchise quarterback. While he started the 2024 season as a backup, Maye quickly earned the starting position by Week 6.
Some of his early career highlights include:
- First NFL start against the Houston Texans, where he threw for 243 yards and 3 touchdowns.
- Recorded 276 passing yards and 2 touchdowns against Jacksonville, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
- Achieved his first rushing touchdown against the New York Jets with a 17-yard run, demonstrating his mobility.
Although still early in his NFL career, Maye has proven he has the tools to develop into one of the league’s top quarterbacks. His height, durability, and elite arm strength make him a natural fit for the Patriots’ offense.
Personal Life and Off-the-Field Activities
Off the field, Drake Maye remains grounded and family-oriented. He often credits his competitive drive and work ethic to his upbringing and siblings. Beyond football, Maye has demonstrated a commitment to giving back to the community. He has supported causes like the Special Olympics and participated in various youth football camps to inspire the next generation.
This dedication to both his craft and his community paints the picture of a young athlete with the potential to leave a positive legacy both on and off the field.
Drake Maye’s Bright Future
At just 22 years old, Drake Maye’s football journey is only beginning. With his towering height, athleticism, and strong foundation, he has all the tools to become an elite NFL quarterback. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his career unfolds with the New England Patriots.
If you’re as intrigued as we are by Maye’s story, stay tuned—this rising star is just getting started.
FAQs
What was Drake Maye’s GPA in high school?
Drake Maye excelled academically in high school, maintaining a high GPA while balancing sports and studies, solidifying his reputation as a disciplined student-athlete.
How many years did Drake Maye play in college?
Maye played three years of college football, including a redshirt year, before declaring for the NFL Draft.
What is Drake Maye’s hand size?
His hand size measures 9 1/8 inches, a critical metric evaluated at the NFL Combine for quarterbacks.
What is Drake Maye’s salary?
Drake Maye signed a fully guaranteed 4-year rookie contract with the Patriots worth $36.64 million.
Did Drake Maye commit to Alabama?
Yes, Maye initially committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide but later flipped his commitment to the University of North Carolina.