Patriots QB Drake Maye started his first NFL game with a heavy heart

Patriots rookie Drake Maye experienced a whirlwind of emotions this past weekend.

Maye saw one of his lifelong dreams realized when he made his first NFL start in New England’s Week 6 game against Houston on Sunday. But a day before they impressed with three touchdown passes at Gillette Stadium, Maye and the North Carolina community suffered a heartbreaking defeat.

Tylee Craft, a former Tar Heels wide receiver, died Saturday following a battle with stage 4 lung cancer. Craft was 23 years old.

Maye honored his former UNC colleague on the eve of his first NFL start by sharing a photo of Craft on his Instagram Story with the caption, “I love you man.” REST IN PEACE.”

The No. 3 overall pick managed to compartmentalize his wide range of emotions on Sunday and make a very solid first impression. Maye seemed to give the Patriots’ offense the spark the unit was looking for and in turn inspired optimism for the group’s future.

Maye will make his next start on Sunday when the Patriots visit the struggling Jacksonville Jaguars for a Week 7 game at London’s Wembley Stadium. Kickoff for the international competition is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. ET.