“Mini Brady and Baby Vrabel?”—Two Rookie Standouts Turning Heads at Patriots Training Camp

New England Patriots fans hoping for a glimpse of the future got exactly that as the team kicked off its 2025 rookie minicamp. But among the many hopefuls, two names stood out more than the rest—quarterback Drake Maye and linebacker Mike Vrabel Jr. Their performances on Day 1 were so commanding, they’ve already earned nicknames that stir nostalgia: “Mini Brady” and “Baby Vrabel.”

Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick, is being touted as the heir apparent to the long-vacant quarterback throne in Foxborough. And if his first rookie practice is any indication, he’s embracing that legacy with poise. The former North Carolina star impressed with sharp decision-making, deep-ball accuracy, and surprising mobility. His chemistry with rookie wideouts, especially second-round pick Kyle Williams, was undeniable—highlighted by a perfect deep pass that led to a diving catch.

“He’s picking things up fast,” said offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt. “There’s a lot we’re throwing at him, but he’s handling it with maturity.” Maye took most of the first-team reps, signaling the coaching staff’s confidence in his leadership and potential.

On the other side of the ball, Mike Vrabel Jr.—the son of Patriots legend and three-time Super Bowl champion Mike Vrabel—brought a familiar brand of toughness. A sixth-round pick out of Boston College, Vrabel Jr. looked every bit like his father on the field: disciplined, aggressive, and instinctive. He made a standout stop in run drills and later broke up a pass in coverage, drawing a loud reaction from teammates and coaches.

“He’s got football in his blood,” said defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington. “He plays like a guy who’s been around the game his whole life—and he has.” With New England needing reinforcements at linebacker after the departure of several veterans, Vrabel Jr. could earn meaningful reps faster than expected.

While much attention was on these two rising stars, the rookie camp also featured strong showings from wide receiver Kyle Williams, cornerback Marcellas Dial Jr., and undrafted running back DeShaun Fenwick. However, third-round running back Treveyon Henderson’s unexplained absence cast a slight shadow over an otherwise encouraging first day.

As rookie camp continues, the buzz around Maye and Vrabel Jr. is only growing louder. It’s early—very early—but the Patriots might just have found two key pieces of their future. And if nicknames like “Mini Brady” and “Baby Vrabel” stick, New England fans could be in for a thrilling new chapter.