There are some experiences that just make you feel old. The cashier calling you Sir or Madam. The bouncer not asking for your ID. If you're a football player, that moment comes when the opposing quarterback tells you he used to play with your character in Madden NFL.
Los Angeles Chargers safety had that moment when second-year sensation Drake Maye of the New England Patriots told him that before a game. James is only in his seventh year, but that revelation gave him some Brett Favre-like feelings.
Thing is, the young quarterback meant it as a compliment. He was a little starstruck and there's no welcome to the NFL moment quite like standing across from somebody you've only ever encountered in a video game.
"He's relentless. He's a great football player. I played him last year and got to know him a little bit at the Pro Bowl. He's a great dude," Maye said during a January 7 press conference. " He flies around. He's got good instincts. He's punching at the ball. He's good in the run game. He's good in the pass game. He plays some man coverage on third down. He's always around the football. "
Maye learned James' moves pretty well, as New England soundly defeated Los Angeles, 16-3, in the NFL Wild Card Round. After an incredible season that has the Patriots surging, Madden NFL 26 increased Maye's ratings and granted him Superstar status in the game. If the second-year signal caller keeps playing this well, there may be another upgrade in store before the season ends.