Drake Maye Injury Update: Mike Macdonald addresses Patriots QB’s shoulder concern

Drake Maye’s name on the injury report has changed the tone of Super Bowl week in Las Vegas. The Patriots QB is now dealing with a right shoulder issue and an illness, just days before New England faces the Seahawks in the most-awaited Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8, 2026.

What made the situation louder was not panic from Foxborough, but calm from the other sideline. Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald spoke openly and made it clear that Maye’s injury has not changed Seattle’s mindset.

Mike Macdonald keeps the Seahawks locked in despite Drake Maye's injury

Mike Macdonald addressed reporters during Seattle’s Super Bowl media session on Friday. When asked if Maye’s shoulder issue altered his defensive game plan, his answer was short.

“None,” Macdonald said at the podium during media availability. “Our focus is on preparing for the championship game.”

That response came as concern grew around Maye’s status. The star QB missed Friday’s practice because of the shoulder injury and a non-COVID illness, per the team’s injury report. He remains listed as questionable.

The injury happened during the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos. Safety Talanoa Hufanga tackled Maye at the end of a 13-yard scramble in the third quarter. Hufanga landed on Maye’s throwing shoulder, and the quarterback stayed down briefly before returning.

Despite the setback, Macdonald continued to stress respect for Maye’s game:

“He is a tremendous player,” Macdonald said during Super Bowl Opening Night in Las Vegas. “He’s strong. He’s fast. Great arm talent. Great decision-making. We’ve got to be on our stuff.”

HC further added in the same interview: “We’re going through that process right now of how we want to play,” Macdonald said. “I think the key is trying to create as many of those (third-and-long) situations as possible.”

Maye’s numbers explain the concern. He threw for 4,394 yards, 31 TDs, and eight interceptions during the 2025 regular season. He also rushed for 450 yards. In the playoffs, he added 4 passing TDs and ran for 131 yards across two games.

Drake Maye spoke about his shoulder on Thursday during an interview with WEEI in Boston.

“I’m feeling good,” Maye said. “It’s been a long stretch of throwing. Thirty weeks straight can add up. I got extra rest, and I’ll be ready.”

Seattle also has its own health concerns. Seahawks QB Sam Darnold is nursing an oblique injury. He practiced on a limited basis this week but is expected to start.

The injury report may grow longer, but Macdonald’s message stayed simple. Seattle is preparing for the same Drake Maye. Hurt or not, he remains the center of this Super Bowl.


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