Jerod Mayo shares timeline for Patriots starting quarterback decision

Jerod Mayo and his coaching staff haven't made a decision on the Patriots starting quarterback for Week 1 of the regular season yet. But they do know when they'll be making that call.

The Patriots still have one preseason game left, on Sunday night against the Washington Commanders. Mayo told reporters prior to Wednesday's practice that all four quarterbacks will play in that game, with a decision on the Week 1 starter coming a day or two later.

"I would say by Monday night we should know who the quarterback is," Mayo shared. "Sunday night game, it's always hard to really crank through the film, especially on the road. But I think Monday, Monday-Tuesday, we probably need to know who it is."

However, did add a caveat. "Now, that doesn't mean I'll tell you on Monday or Tuesday," he said.

While veteran Jacoby Brissett has worked exclusively as a starter so far in this camp, rookie third overall pick Drake Maye has made strides in recent practices. Maye also had a strong showing in the Week 2 preseason game last week, while Brissett struggled.

That coaching staff has clearly gained confidence in Maye in that time. Asked on Wednesday if he thinks Maye could start a game if needed at this point, Mayo replied "100%, I think he's ready to to run a huddle."

Mayo also shared some insight into who will be making that decision. "The players that go on the field, I would think I would have final say. But, once again, I know I've used this word a lot, we will collaborate on that," Mayo shared. In a later answer he said the decision "[is] between Alex [Van Pelt, offensive coordinator], myself, Eliot [Wolf, VP of player personnel] and the rest of the offensive staff."

The Patriots starting quarterback for Week 1 has been arguably the biggest talking point around the team all offseason. While there may not be an answer yet, it sounds like it's coming sooner rather than later.