Patriots fans will get their first glimpse of Drake Maye in game action on Thursday, as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft is expected to get snaps in New England’s preseason opener against the Panthers at Gillette Stadium. 

Kick-off from Foxborough is set for 7 p.m. 

After 12 days of training camp, Jerod Mayo and New England’s revamped roster will look to test their mettle against Carolina, with several starters expected to play. 

“Look, everyone who is healthy enough to play in the game will play,” Mayo said earlier this week. “We’ve got to see what these guys can do with live action.”

While Jacoby Brissett is currently in the driver’s seat as New England’s QB1, Thursday should offer an opportunity for Maye, Joe Milton, and even Bailey Zappe to earn some reps as well.

Add in questions regarding New England’s O-line and new additions in the Patriots’ receiving corps, and there are plenty of storylines worth following in this one. 

Boston.com’s Khari Thompson has a breakdown of six things to watch for on Thursday night. 

Follow along here for live updates from Thursday’s preseason opener, and check back once the game wraps for some early observations. 

LIVE UPDATES:

5:50: Plenty of eyes will be on Drake Maye, but I can’t wait to see Milton get a few snaps. That arm is something else, even if he has plenty of work to do at the NFL level.