Jan. 31, 2026, 4:48 p.m. ET
New England Patriots backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs stepped in for starter Drake Maye at Friday’s practice.
Maye (right shoulder) was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday and Thursday. The Patriots sat the second-team All-Pro quarterback on Friday, as the team prepares to play in Super Bowl LX.
According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, Dobbs ran with the first-teamers in New England’s third practice of the week.
“QB Joshua Dobbs – “smooth day” stepping in for Drake Maye (illness) for 1st practice this year,” Reiss posted on X.
Maye reportedly injured his throwing shoulder before the Patriots’ AFC Championship win over the Denver Broncos, according to NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry. The second-year quarterback dispelled concerns about his shoulder injury on WEEI Afternoons. However, the Patriots listed him as hurt on their injury report since Wednesday.
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It’s important to note that Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said Maye would have practiced on Friday if not for the illness.
Dobbs assumed Maye’s role, having played in four regular-season games this year. The Tennessee product completed 7-of-10 passes for 65 yards in 2025.
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