Patriots QB Drake Maye Apologizes to Steelers Rookie After Refusing Jersey Swap
The New England Patriots’ 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 was already difficult to swallow. But rookie quarterback Drake Maye added to the spotlight when he declined a postgame jersey swap at midfield.
The matchup at Gillette Stadium started with promise for New England, as Maye threw two touchdown passes to Hunter Henry. Yet five turnovers — three fumbles and two interceptions — proved costly, allowing Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers to rally.
Amid the postgame handshakes, rookie defensive lineman Derrick Harmon approached Maye with a jersey swap request. Still visibly frustrated after committing critical mistakes, the Patriots quarterback shook his head and walked away, a moment captured on broadcast cameras.
The clip went viral, sparking debate among fans. Some defended Maye’s emotions in the wake of a crushing defeat, while others criticized the move as “disrespectful” toward a young player trying to establish himself in the league.
On Monday, Maye addressed the controversy. “I want to apologize for how I handled that moment. He asked right when I was most frustrated. He’s a talented young player, and I respect him,”
the rookie quarterback told reporters.
Maye continued: “Next time, I’ll be the one asking to swap jerseys. I can’t let frustration define me, and I’ll make sure to learn from this.”
For New England, the apology comes in the midst of continued struggles at home, where the team has now dropped 16 of its last 19 games. The loss pushed the Patriots to 1-2 on the season.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh improved to 2-1 behind a strong defensive showing and Rodgers’ efficiency. For Maye, the moment served as a reminder that leadership is measured beyond stats — and sometimes in the gestures made after the final whistle.
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