Drake Maye breaks down in tears, taking full responsibility after a disappointing performance that caused the Patriots to miss out on Super Bowl LX — but it was Stefon Diggs’ action afterward that truly left Patriots Nation choking back tears

Santa Clara, California – On the night of February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium, the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl dream ended in silence. Against a dominant Seattle Seahawks defense, the Patriots fell 13–29, watching their opponent capture the second Super Bowl championship in franchise history with a decisive defensive performance.

For Drake Maye, it was the most difficult night of his season. The first three quarters unfolded in complete stagnation as the Seahawks applied relentless pressure, dismantling the Patriots’ offensive rhythm. Repeated blitzes and defensive speed prevented Maye from establishing the stability he had shown throughout the journey that brought the team back to the NFL’s biggest stage.

The numbers clearly reflected the game’s flow. The Patriots were shut out through three quarters, totaling just around 78 yards of offense and very few first downs. Maye himself was sacked six times and committed three turnovers — two interceptions and one fumble — including plays that directly placed the team in nearly impossible situations to overcome.

Only in the fourth quarter, with the Seahawks firmly in control, did Maye produce a few rare bright moments. He delivered a perfectly arced 35-yard touchdown pass to Mack Hollins into the end zone, then followed with a short touchdown to Rhamondre Stevenson. Still, those late scores were not enough to change a result that had already been decided.

After the game, Maye did not shy away from responsibility. Standing before the media with tear-filled eyes, he bowed his head and admitted the blame rested with him. “I put my teammates in dangerous situations tonight. This is the Super Bowl, and if we didn’t get what we wanted, the first responsibility is on me. It hurts knowing what they had to endure because of me, and that feeling is going to stay with me for a long time.”

HEARTBREAKING: #Patriots quarterback Drake Maye CHOKED UP talking about how much his head coach Mike Vrabel means to him after losing the Super Bowl.

💔💔💔

Vrabel is like a father to many of his players and truly means the world to his guys.pic.twitter.com/nGmH7k5pgY

— MLFootball (@MLFootball) February 9, 2026

The most emotional moment came after the interview ended. Stefon Diggs, who fought until the final snap, quietly walked over and put his arm around Maye’s shoulder, whispering something softly. It was the first time Maye smiled all night. Diggs later said he understood the pressure the young quarterback was carrying and believed Maye has the heart of a true leader.

For Patriots Nation, that gesture went far beyond simple consolation. It was a symbol of succession — trust being passed from a seasoned veteran to the future leader. Super Bowl LX ended in defeat, but it also left behind a moment that served as a reminder: the journey of the Patriots, and of Drake Maye, is far from over.