Patriots helmet Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots brought in veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett this offseason and then selected former North Carolina star Drake Maye with the No. 3 overall pick in the NFL Draft, setting up an offseason quarterback battle between the veteran and the rookie. And it sounds like the team is open to allowing the two players to compete for the starting role.

After the draft on Thursday evening, New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo made it clear that Drake Maye and Jacoby Brissett will compete against each other the entire offseason.

“I think to go back to Bill, I don’t think many rookies are ready to just jump in and play,” Mayo said according to Pro Football Talk. “At the end of the day, our philosophy is the best players will play. Coming in as a rookie, hopefully he’s a sponge. A lot of good players in that locker room. Look, Jacoby understands, he’s a mentor. He’s very smart, has great leadership skills, and hopefully Drake can learn something from him, as well. I would say we’re going to compete all spring, we’re going to compete during training camp, and the best player will start.”

It will certainly be interesting to see who emerges as the starter.

[Pro Football Talk]