ew England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye seemed relatively fine following his club’s victory over the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship.
David J. Chao isn’t so sure, however…
Chao, who spent nearly two decades working as the official team doctor for the then-San Diego Chargers, has transitioned into the world of sports media and provides instant injury analysis for fans of the NFL, NBA and MLB — and made the argument that Maye suffered an injury on Sunday.
“Drake Maye injured his right throwing shoulder against the Broncos,” Chao wrote on X on Monday, with his post accompanied by a four-minute video explaining his totally unsubstantiated diagnosis. “How severe the injury is, and the exact diagnosis, remains to be determined. Heading into Super Bowl LX, I’m far more concerned about Maye’s shoulder than Sam Darnold’s oblique.”
It’s safe to say that his argument is rather shaky, as is his past. Chao has a history of medical malpractice and was sued on two separate occasions with damages awarded totaling over $6 million, according to The Law Offices of Melinda J. Helbock.
Broncos get their 5th sack of the game 😤
NEvsDEN on CBS/Paramount+
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/5oSuqST2Ov— NFL (@NFL) January 25, 2026
What does any of this mean?
Maye’s shoulder will be something to watch for, as he did reach for it on a couple of occasions after taking a hit in the third quarter on Sunday. The Patriots’ first injury report of the week is due on Wednesday, and his appearance or lack thereof will help bring some clarity to an odd situation.
If we don’t see the sophomore signal-caller, it’s safe to say he’ll be ready to go for Super Bowl LX. If we do, there’s a wonder of just how substantial the injury is and whether or not it will impact his availability — though something tells us there isn’t too much to worry about.
