Quick 6: Get to know NFL Draft Prospect Jason Maitre

Former Boston College and Wisconsin defensive back Jason Maitre is a versatile playmaker with the tools to shine at the next level.

Maitre started his college football journey at Boston College, only a 30-minute drive from where he attended high school: Everett, Massachusetts. 

Originally, Maitre played receiver before switching to defensive back.

After five seasons with the Eagles, he initially committed to Liberty but then de-committed and signed with the Wisconsin Badgers. With the Badgers, he was their primary nickel corner and had the task of lining up against the top opposing slot receivers.

He finished his 2023 season strong and didn’t allow an opposing receiver to catch a touchdown on 56 targets. In 12 appearances, he recorded 24 tackles, one tackle for loss and one interception.

Maitre performed at Boston College for his pro day, where he met with the Patriots. Soon after, Maitre was invited to the Patriots local pro day, which will be held on April 4th. Local Pro days are designed for players who either graduated high school or went to college near a team’s facilities.

Maitre recently spoke exclusively with The Patriots Beat about the pre-draft process, his versatility, strengths and growth as a player.

Do you have a specific scheme you feel the most comfortable in?

I played football for three different defenses, and some were the same. I say I could fit in all diffrent types of schemes and do many things. My playstyle is verstile, so I’m open to anything. 

What do you think are your strengths?

I’m a savvy football player. I can play anywhere, and my biggest strength is my versatility. You know, you turn on my tape, and I can play, and I do it well; I play corner, safety, all of it. I’ve played on both sides of the ball and even played punt return. I think I take pride in being consistent. My biggest thing is being consistent. Although, my stats aren’t always going to pop out at you, I’m smart and quick. 

You played at Boston College and then went to Wisconsin. How do you think you’ve grown as a player from six years ago to now?

My technique has improved, and I’ve started looking at my game more and learning how I can improve. I’m going to watch the tape, and I’m going to play my technique, but at the same time, you know, let those two play into each other and know when exactly when I can anticipate and do the things that I do. 

When watching film, what are some things you look for?

I look at their offense and how they perform against a defense that is similar to the one we play. I watch for their release on the line of scrimmage. Then I started looking at splits and formations, where the back and the players are lined up. Then, you can put it all together. Once you put it all together, it’s easier to know what you’re looking for, and you can play faster.

After five seasons with Boston College, you decided to transfer to Wisconsin. What went into that decision?

I never expected to be in the portal. God had a different plan for me, but it was kind of crazy. Then I kind of just sat back, and I got really good feedback. I tested myself. I had many options but decided to go with my instint.

You were initially committed to Liberty after you left Boston College. Why did you decide to decommit and join the Badgers?

Coach Colin Hitschler called me up and told me he needed a nickel, and I wanted to play nickel. A lot of the teams were asking me to play strong safety or safety like Texas A&M and Oklahoma State. I knew my playstyle is nickel, and I was excited to be in the Big 10.