FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – In a surprising move, Patriots coach Jerod Mayo has announced that Jacoby Brissett will be the starting quarterback for New England’s season opener at Cincinnati.

Brissett has been chosen over rookie first-round draft pick Drake Maye, with whom he shared snaps throughout training camp and the preseason.

Mayo explained that he made the decision after speaking to Brissett and Maye individually and then together. The team was informed of the choice during a meeting on Thursday morning.

“There were a lot of factors that led to this choice,” Mayo said. “I think the hard part is thinking in the short term and the long term at the same time. As an organization, though, we feel like Jacoby gives us our best chance to win.”

Mayo emphasized that the team is fully behind Brissett and does not plan to rotate quarterbacks throughout the season.

Brissett, who is entering his ninth NFL season, signed a one-year, $8 million deal with the Patriots in March, reuniting with the team that originally drafted him in 2016.

Having played for multiple teams over the years, Brissett brings a wealth of experience to the Patriots and will serve as a mentor to Maye.

Despite acknowledging Maye’s strong performance in the preseason, Mayo ultimately selected Brissett due to his overall experience, which will be crucial as the team navigates early-season challenges.

As the Patriots gear up for the season opener, all eyes will be on Brissett as he leads the team onto the field in Cincinnati.