Patriots QB Drake Maye Trains with FAU Wide Receivers

Quarterback prospect's collaboration with college program showcases NFL's interconnected ecosystem

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:23pm

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a football training session, with players and the field broken down into abstract shapes and planes.A collaborative training session between an NFL prospect and a college program showcases the interconnected nature of the football community.Boca Raton Today

Patriots quarterback Drake Maye recently visited Florida Atlantic University (FAU) to throw passes with the Owls' wide receivers, highlighting the importance of relationships and mentorship in the NFL. The interaction between Maye and FAU head coach Zach Kittley, who has worked with top QBs like Patrick Mahomes, showcases how even small gestures can have a significant impact on player development and the overall culture of the league.

Why it matters

This story underscores the interconnected nature of the NFL community, where players and coaches can learn from each other and build valuable relationships that transcend team and organizational boundaries. As the league continues to evolve, these types of collaborative interactions will become increasingly crucial in shaping the sport's future.

The details

Maye, a top quarterback prospect, took the time to visit FAU and work with the team's wide receivers, demonstrating a level of humility and respect that is often admired in athletes. FAU head coach Zach Kittley, who has coached quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Davis Webb, was impressed with Maye's accuracy and smooth release, highlighting the potential value of mentorship and the sharing of knowledge between players and coaches.

  • The training session took place in April 2026.

The players

Drake Maye

A quarterback prospect for the New England Patriots.

Zach Kittley

The head coach of the Florida Atlantic University (FAU) football team, who has worked with top NFL quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Davis Webb.

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What they’re saying

“Maye's accuracy and smooth release were really impressive. It's great to see young players like him taking the time to collaborate with college programs.”

— Zach Kittley, FAU Head Coach

What’s next

As Maye continues to develop and prepare for his NFL career, his relationship with Kittley and the FAU program could provide valuable insights and mentorship opportunities that could help shape his future success.

The takeaway

This story highlights the importance of networking, mentorship, and collaborative relationships in the NFL. Even small interactions between players and coaches from different teams and levels can have a significant impact on player development and the overall culture of the league, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.