New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye publicly questioned the accuracy of media reports regarding teammate Rhamondre Stevenson’s injury status during a press conference in Munich, Germany, on Thursday. Maye’s remarks came as the Patriots prepared for Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions at Allianz Arena.
Stevenson, listed as ‘doubtful’ on the team’s injury report, was observed participating in practice drills off to the side after the team arrived in Munich. Reports earlier this week, citing NFL insider Ian Rapoport, had indicated Stevenson was expected to miss multiple weeks with a plantaris tendon injury to the back of his knee, sustained during the Patriots’ Week 3 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Maye addressed the discrepancy directly, stating: “I think that’s just, speaks to, you know, first off, the media not really knowing 100 percent what they’re talking about a lot of the time.” He emphasized Stevenson’s eagerness to return, adding: “He’s a guy that wants to be out there. Wants to be back for his team. … We’re in the midst of planning to make a run here and win a big one before the bye.”
Stevenson’s status remains uncertain as of Friday. ESPN’s Mike Reiss shared video footage on Thursday showing Stevenson participating in non-contact drills, though no official update has been provided by the team. The Patriots’ injury report for Sunday’s game is scheduled to be released on Friday afternoon.
The Patriots, who landed in Munich on Thursday, are scheduled to face the Detroit Lions at Allianz Arena on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. ET. The game marks the NFL’s third international matchup of the 2025 season and the second in Germany, following the Jacksonville Jaguars’ win over the Buffalo Bills in Berlin last week.
Team context and recent performance
The Patriots (1-2) enter the game after a 45-27 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, in which Stevenson recorded 32 rushing yards and one receiving touchdown before exiting due to injury. The team’s offense has struggled in recent weeks, with key players like AJ Brown also dealing with injuries. Stevenson, who leads the team in rushing yards (399) and rushing touchdowns (2), has been a critical component of New England’s ground game.
The NFL has expanded its international schedule in recent years, with 10 international games scheduled for 2027 and discussions ongoing about further expansion. The league’s growing presence abroad includes regular-season games in Germany, the UK, and Mexico, with Munich hosting its first NFL game in 2024.
Patriots’ preparations in Munich
The team’s arrival in Munich marked the beginning of final preparations for Sunday’s game. Stevenson’s participation in practice, though limited, has raised questions about his availability. Head coach Jerod Mayo has not provided a definitive update on Stevenson’s status, stating only that the team would evaluate him daily.
Mayo addressed the media’s questions about Stevenson’s injury during Thursday’s practice, reiterating the team’s focus on player health and readiness. “We’re going to do what’s best for Rhamondre and what’s best for this football team,” Mayo said. “We’ll take it day by day.”
The Patriots’ roster includes several players recovering from injuries, including Keenan Allen, who has been limited in practice this week. The team’s ability to field a healthy lineup could significantly impact their performance against the Lions, who enter the game with a 2-1 record and a strong defensive unit.
League reaction to Maye’s remarks
Maye’s comments about the media have drawn attention, though no official response has been issued by NFL or team officials. The league has emphasized the importance of accurate reporting, particularly regarding player injuries, which can impact betting lines and fan expectations.
ESPN’s Mike Reiss, who first reported Stevenson’s expected absence, has not publicly addressed Maye’s remarks. The Patriots’ media relations team did not respond to requests for further comment on Friday.
The game will air on CBS at 9:30 a.m. ET, with kickoff scheduled for 9:30 a.m. local time in Munich.