FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quarterback Drake Maye said Wednesday the physical condition of his right shoulder hasn't affected his throwing ability, instead highlighting the need to make better decisions to reverse his early-season struggles in the New England Patriots' 1-2 start.
"That's what makes and breaks play for quarterbacks," Maye said after the team's first practice in preparation for Sunday's road game against the AFC East-leading Buffalo Bills (3-0).
"I don't feel like we're struggling to move the ball. I think we're turning the football over, doing things that are preventing us from scoring touchdowns, and I think that's one of the biggest things for me."
At the same time, Maye was listed on the injury report for the first time this season due to his right throwing shoulder. He was a full participant in practice Wednesday.
"I felt good out there today," he said. "I think we've had a history of good football when we don't turn the football over, so that's the biggest thing, and I'm looking forward to another good week of practice."
Maye has completed 63.8% of his passes, with six interceptions, one lost fumble and just one touchdown pass.
In Sunday's 35-6 loss to the Jaguars, he was sacked three times and also rushed four times for 18 yards. After the game, he was asked if he's felt any lingering effects from the right shoulder injury he suffered in the AFC Championship Game that led to him taking a pain-killing injection before Super Bowl LX.
"I wouldn't say there is a problem with my shoulder," Maye answered, adding, "You're going to get banged up every now and then, but at the same time, a lot of guys are banged up."
Maye, along with coach Mike Vrabel, also fielded questions Wednesday regarding their working relationship. After Maye's third turnover Sunday in Jacksonville, Vrabel wrapped his arms around Maye's shoulder pads on the sideline.
"Coach Vrabel's been one of the best football coaches I've had in my life," Maye said. "I've loved playing for him, and it's not going to change. The way he pushes me, and he coaches the quarterbacks in a way that I really respect, and I'm looking forward to getting going, proving to Coach that I can lead this football team and play good football."
Early in Wednesday's practice, Vrabel approached Maye during a stretching period for a chat.
"I had choices as to where I wanted to coach. I wanted to coach here because Drake was the quarterback," Vrabel said Wednesday.