Jacoby Brissett likely knew it would come at some point, but it seems that didn’t make it any easier for the New England Patriots veteran quarterback.
Brissett was benched by head coach Jerod Mayo and the Patriots. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who the organization selected third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, will start his first game against the Houston Texans on Sunday afternoon.
“It’s tough. I don’t think words can really describe how tough it is,” Brissett told reporters at Gillette Stadium on Thursday, per Pro Football Network’s Dakota Randall.
Brissett tried to keep a big-picture perspective, however.
“I told somebody this the other day, ‘I’ve been through hard things in my life. I’m sure this won’t be the last time I go through something hard.’ So, I’ll be alright,” Brissett told reporters.
“Drake (Maye) asked me how I’m doing and I’m like, ‘Man, if you’re worried about me, you’re worried about the wrong thing right now. I can take care of myself.’ Obviously, appreciate that, but I’ll be alright.”
When asked what role he envisions going forward, Brissett responded: “We’ll see going forward.”
Mayo said the decision was rooted both in the offense’s struggles through five games as well as Maye’s behind-the-scenes development. Mayo lauded Brissett for taking the news like a professional and being a “warrior” on the field during his five starts.