Derek Meyer fumble: Why the Patriots’ young quarterback has become infamous for strip sacks originally appeared on The Sporting News. Click here to add Sports News as your go-to source.
It’s easy to overlook shortcomings when winning playoff games and competing in the AFC Champions League.
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However, after a rough stretch of the playoffs that was marred by fumbles, Derek Meyer’s ball-handling has improved.
Fortunately for Meyer and the New England Patriots, the Denver Broncos rank 27th in fumble recoveries and 28th in forcing fumbles.
Regardless, winning high-pressure football games becomes more difficult when your quarterback starts turning the ball over.
The Sporting News has everything you need to know about how the Patriots’ young quarterback became infamous for fumbles.
More 2026 NFL playoff news:
Derek Meyer misses
Meyer fumbled six times in the playoffs, allowing three runs. If the Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans are more careful about their turnovers and more efficient on offense, Meyer’s ball security will cause bigger problems.
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Meyer’s problem didn’t arise in the playoffs; it was his biggest flaw all season. In 19 games this year, Meyer has a league-high 14 fumbles.
Here’s what the young quarterback has to say about the ongoing issue.
“I’ve got to do a better job of hitting guys downfield when we have opportunities. I’ve got to handle the football better when I’m jumping and running,” Meyer said Sunday after a win over the Texans. “From that point on, you know football is about precious possession. I like our chances when we don’t pass the ball and put the team in the best position.”
more: The 18 greatest players in Patriots history, ranked
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Which QB in the NFL gives up the most fumbles in 2025?
|
rank |
QB |
team |
conceding a goal |
|
1 |
Derek Meyer |
northeast |
14 |
|
2 |
Cam Ward |
ten |
11 |
|
2 |
Baker Mayfield |
tuberculosis |
11 |
|
2 |
Sam Darnold |
ocean |
11 |
|
5 |
Josh Allen |
buffer |
10 |
|
6 |
Justin Herbert |
Lac |
9 |
|
6 |
Daniel Jones |
clinical trial |
9 |
|
6 |
Matthew Stafford |
Lal |
9 |
|
6 |
Caleb Williams |
gas |
9 |
|
10 |
Jordan Love |
National standard |
8 |
|
10 |
Jaylen is injured |
personal health index |
8 |
|
10 |
Tua Tagovailoa |
mia |
8 |
more: A look back at the 2016 AFC Champions League game between the Patriots and Broncos