Though we would’ve enjoyed watching him player another season at UNC, there was little question on whether Drake Maye would be heading to the 2024 NFL Draft.

He’s projected to be a Top-5 pick and could possibly be the first player off the draft board.

Maye only started for two seasons at North Carolina, but quickly rose to become one of college football’s top quarterbacks. He finished his career with an electric stat line – 8,018 passing yards and 63 passing touchdowns, plus 1,209 rushing yards and 16 ground scores.

Maye was regularly in the Heisman Trophy conversation this year and – when the Tar Heel offense struggled at times – he could always do something insane to create some.

In preparation of the upcoming NFL Draft, which kicks off Thursday, April 25 in Detroit, Mich. Maye’s been working out with one of the league’s greatest dragon slayers.

Eli Manning was the top overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, after spending five seasons at Ole Miss and suiting up for four of them. While he’s recognized as the younger brother of Hall of Famer Peyton Manning, Eli did something that few were able to do – beat Tom Brady in the Super Bowl.

Not only did Eli Manning top Brady’s Patriots in the Super Bowl once – but twice (2008, 2012). 2008 is likely the more memorable of the younger Manning’s victories, as David Tyree made a nearly-improbably catch against his helmet.

Working with an NFL legend could prove major dividends for Maye, who’ll be a much-needed upgrade for whatever team selects him. Maye is projected to be selected by either the New England Patriots or Washington Commanders, though the Minnesota Vikings have emerged as a recent possibility.

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Story originally appeared on Tarheels Wire