Jacoby Brissett: Words Can't 'Describe How Tough' Patriots Benching for Drake Maye Is

As the New England Patriots prepare to get their first look at Drake Maye as a starting quarterback in the NFL, Jacoby Brissett has opened up about being benched just five games into the season.

Speaking to reporters prior to Thursday's practice, Brissett said words can't "really describe how tough it is" to be replaced as the starter.

Brissett did praise Maye for asking him about the situation earlier this week.

Head coach Jerod Mayo confirmed on Wednesday that Maye would make his first career start on Sunday against the Houston Texans.

The Patriots offense has been abysmal to start the season. They enter Week 6 ranked 31st in yards and points per game. They are averaging a league-worst 119.4 passing yards per game.

None of this is a huge surprise given where the offense was at last year, the lack of significant upgrades at any skill positions, and the offensive line woes that were apparent during training camp.

By Pro Football Focus' tracking metrics, Brissett has only had 13 dropbacks without being pressured through four games. He wasn't elevating the offense with just eight completions for 58 yards on those plays.

While it can be debated if Brissett deserved to be benched given the surroundings in New England, the blame will ultimately be directed at the quarterback, especially if there is a highly-drafted rookie waiting on the bench.

Maye isn't being put on the field where's in a position to succeed. On top of the personnel issues the Patriots have on offense, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans has his defense playing at a high level so far this season.

Brissett was signed by the Patriots in the offseason to serve as a bridge until Maye was ready. New England was always vague during the offseason and throughout camp about what the plan was with the quarterback situation.

The Patriots could always end up going back to Brissett at some point if they need to, but making the switch at this point signals they need to be committed to Maye for the long-term benefit of the franchise.