Indefinite New England Patriots Thread (6 Viewers)

[Boston]

Will Grier resigned...at this point BB is either just screwing with everyone or he needs a wellness check...so sad to see it end this way.

Patriots re-sign Will Grier to practice squad

The Patriots worked out five players Monday, including former Purdue quarterback Austin Burton.

www.nbcsports.com

 

[Boston]

Looking forward to someday posting something positive about the Pats...I guess this is payback for those 20 good years...sooooooo, for no reason at all you kick a very good kicker to the curb in Nick Folk so you can use a 4th round pick on a kicker when you have holes up-and-down the roster and now this:

Patriots try out kickers after Chad Ryland's big miss

Patriots kicker Chad Ryland missed a game-tying 35-yard field goal with six seconds left in Sunday's loss to the Giants, and now the Patriots are looking for potential replacements.

www.nbcsports.com

 

[kyoun1e]

Don't understand letting Malik go. Seems like he had some potential.

I find it hard to believe a 3 win team couldn't find someone else to let hang out in the breeze.

 

[Boston]

Don't understand letting Malik go. Seems like he had some potential.

I find it hard to believe a 3 win team couldn't find someone else to let hang out in the breeze.

Belichick gives surprisingly honest answer about Cunningham's departure

Why did Malik Cunningham leave the Patriots to sign with the Ravens this week? Bill Belichick gave a refreshingly candid answer Wednesday.

www.nbcsportsboston.com

 

[Boston]

There's a Weird Buzz Around the Patriots After the Decision to Let Malik Cunningham Go. And it Could Be an Alarm Going Off.

Omar Rawlings. Getty Images.I have to confess that when it was announced that the Ravens had signed Malik Cunningham off the Patriots practice squad, I didn't think much of it. For sure he was an int...

www.barstoolsports.com

 

[Lansdowne]

Robert Kraft has reportedly already made a decision about Bill Belichick's future with the Patriots

Team owner Robert Kraft has reportedly already made a decision about head coach Bill Belichick's future with the Patriots.

www.boston.com

 

[kyoun1e]

Did the Pats jump back to pick 3 due to some SOS shift due to last night's game?

 

[GoBirds]

How do yall feel about Zeke today?

 

[Boston]

How do yall feel about Zeke today?

Kind of the same as every other week since Stevenson got hurt...he will get all the touches so he should get you some solid points but if you are looking for "blow-up" potential that may not be his thing.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

Did the Pats jump back to pick 3 due to some SOS shift due to last night's game?

correct. panthers are locked in with the first pick.

next week, pats host jets at 1:00, then arizona (4th pick currently) hosts seattle and commanders (2nd pick currently) host cowboys at 4:25.

seattle is clinging to the 8th seed and will give 101%. dallas can win the NFC East with a win, but are sketchy on the road and known chokers.

the top 3 picks are QB Williams, WR Harrison Jr. and QB Maye. A few mocks show NE taking QB Daniels at the 3 or 4 spot. I'd like to see Washington beat Dallas and NE take Harrison Jr then trade up for Penix....but to my untrained eye any of the top 4 mentioned here are sold picks for NE.

edit: followed by 5 offensive line picks. lol.

 

[kyoun1e]

Did the Pats jump back to pick 3 due to some SOS shift due to last night's game?

correct. panthers are locked in with the first pick.

next week, pats host jets at 1:00, then arizona (4th pick currently) hosts seattle and commanders (2nd pick currently) host cowboys at 4:25.

seattle is clinging to the 8th seed and will give 101%. dallas can win the NFC East with a win, but are sketchy on the road and known chokers.

the top 3 picks are QB Williams, WR Harrison Jr. and QB Maye. A few mocks show NE taking QB Daniels at the 3 or 4 spot. I'd like to see Washington beat Dallas and NE take Harrison Jr then trade up for Penix....but to my untrained eye any of the top 4 mentioned here are sold picks for NE.

edit: followed by 5 offensive line picks. lol.

I have a terrible feeling NE will beat the Jets next week. They are still fighting hard. Impressive I must say.

If they drop out of the top 4 they'll probably miss out on all three of the top QBs.

 

[Boston]

Did the Pats jump back to pick 3 due to some SOS shift due to last night's game?

correct. panthers are locked in with the first pick.

next week, pats host jets at 1:00, then arizona (4th pick currently) hosts seattle and commanders (2nd pick currently) host cowboys at 4:25.

seattle is clinging to the 8th seed and will give 101%. dallas can win the NFC East with a win, but are sketchy on the road and known chokers.

the top 3 picks are QB Williams, WR Harrison Jr. and QB Maye. A few mocks show NE taking QB Daniels at the 3 or 4 spot. I'd like to see Washington beat Dallas and NE take Harrison Jr then trade up for Penix....but to my untrained eye any of the top 4 mentioned here are sold picks for NE.

edit: followed by 5 offensive line picks. lol.

I have a terrible feeling NE will beat the Jets next week. They are still fighting hard. Impressive I must say.

If they drop out of the top 4 they'll probably miss out on all three of the top QBs.

Agreed...I think they win as well...while I don't blame the players or Coaches at all a win next week could set the franchise back a few years...one other thing which is a negative...they really are not in a position to make any trades to move up if that is their only way to get a QB in this draft...the O is one giant black hole and they have no extra draft picks to move (no trades at the deadline was another stupid move by BB the GM)...due to that they are in a horrible spot where they need to address the QB position while having to fill other holes...it is virtually malpractice what BB the GM has done to this roster...if the Krafts do not hire a GM who is a draft guru this team could remain bad for an extended period of time.

 

[Boston]

FYI...here is a list of their picks for 2024 and 2025:

New England Patriots - Future Draft Picks | Fanspo

New England Patriots future incoming and outgoing draft picks.

fanspo.com

 

[Boston]

Here is a list of some of their pending free agents:

Veterans:

Hunter Henry...would take him back because somehow there is not one young TE behind him but at 29 my guess is he may want to go to a contender.

Trent Brown-he should have never been on this team to begin with...he is a dog and without Dante to reign him in BB should have known better

Mike Gesicki-very apparent he is barely a JAG...move on

Kendrick Bourne-not sure what his health status currently is but if it is a low-price he can come back

Zeke-has done a nice job and looked more spy then I expected but they need to get younger here

Jalen Mills-time to move on unless it is a 1-year team-friendly contract


Younger guys:

*Mike Onwenu-solid, young player and the Pats have a ton of cap space...sign him and leave him at Guard

*Kyle Duggar-somehow he will be 28 in March (i.e. feels like he should be younger)...would definitely take him back but it all depends on the contract...he will make some $ but definitely not the guy to overpay...x-factor for me is is he seen as a leader by his teammates...if he is that gives him more value.

*Josh Uche-pass rushers are at a premium but outside of 2022 (11.5 sacks) he has 7 total sacks...if BB is back as a HC then no because he is not worth it in his scheme but if there is a new HC (hopefully) than a lot depends on what type of D they will be playing...definitely not a guy to overpay but would hate to see him go elsewhere and turn out 3-4 years of double-digit sacks

Anfernee Jennings and Mack Wilson-no issue either way...Pats have a ton of space so as long as the contract is fair why not.

 

[kyoun1e]

Did the Pats jump back to pick 3 due to some SOS shift due to last night's game?

correct. panthers are locked in with the first pick.

next week, pats host jets at 1:00, then arizona (4th pick currently) hosts seattle and commanders (2nd pick currently) host cowboys at 4:25.

seattle is clinging to the 8th seed and will give 101%. dallas can win the NFC East with a win, but are sketchy on the road and known chokers.

the top 3 picks are QB Williams, WR Harrison Jr. and QB Maye. A few mocks show NE taking QB Daniels at the 3 or 4 spot. I'd like to see Washington beat Dallas and NE take Harrison Jr then trade up for Penix....but to my untrained eye any of the top 4 mentioned here are sold picks for NE.

edit: followed by 5 offensive line picks. lol.

I have a terrible feeling NE will beat the Jets next week. They are still fighting hard. Impressive I must say.

If they drop out of the top 4 they'll probably miss out on all three of the top QBs.

Agreed...I think they win as well...while I don't blame the players or Coaches at all a win next week could set the franchise back a few years...one other thing which is a negative...they really are not in a position to make any trades to move up if that is their only way to get a QB in this draft...the O is one giant black hole and they have no extra draft picks to move (no trades at the deadline was another stupid move by BB the GM)...due to that they are in a horrible spot where they need to address the QB position while having to fill other holes...it is virtually malpractice what BB the GM has done to this roster...if the Krafts do not hire a GM who is a draft guru this team could remain bad for an extended period of time.

Will be interesting to see all the draftnick analysis on the 2nd tier QBs. As usual, I expect them to move up boards. Always seems to happen.

You'd think they'd find a way to land an alpha WR in FA. Think Bourne + Demario + Stud would work.

That said, want no part of Tee Higgins. Guy is constantly banged up.

 

[Bad_Mo2]

Really need to clean house with all Belichicks. The kids are buffoons and just are there because of daddy. And, daddy is borderline dementia candidate these days. Cut them all.

 

[Dynasty]

Will be interesting to see all the draftnick analysis on the 2nd tier QBs. As usual, I expect them to move up boards. Always seems to happen.

I think Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, and J.J. McCarthy are probably being ranked too high as well.

I've come to believe NFL teams overrate the importance of drafting a QB when they've got a top pick and need a QB. As a result, they reach for players who don't have early first round talent.

Look back on recent drafts first round quarterbacks.

2023: 1. Bryce Young, 2. C.J. Stroud, 4. Anthony Richardson
2022: 20. Kenny Pickett
2021: 1. Trevor Lawrence, 2. Zach Wilson, 3. Trey Lance, 11. Justin Fields, 15. Mac Jones
2020: 1. Joe Burrow, 5. Tua Tagovailoa, 6. Justin Herbet, 26. Jordan Love
2019: 1. Kyler Murray, 6. Daniel Jones, 15. Dwayne Haskins
2018: 1. Baker Mayfield, 3, Sam Darnold, 7. Josh Allen, 10. Josh Rosen, 32. Lamar Jackson


2020 was a great year. But, even with that excellent class, I'd say there's more than a 50% miss rate (I'm not fan of Fields or Murray).

It would be great to bink a franchise quarterback who will be with the franchise for ~15 years.

However, the Patriots have lots of needs. Marvin Harrison Jr. would make any quarterback better and is probably the best prospect in the draft.

I assume the top offensive linemen and pass rushers are also more reliable than a sub-50% quarterback pick.


The Patriots should take the best player available. If that means who have to solve the short-term quarterback problem another way, then so be it.

 

[IHEARTFF]

Will be interesting to see all the draftnick analysis on the 2nd tier QBs. As usual, I expect them to move up boards. Always seems to happen.

I think Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, and J.J. McCarthy are probably being ranked too high as well.

I've come to believe NFL teams overrate the importance of drafting a QB when they've got a top pick and need a QB. As a result, they reach for players who don't have early first round talent.

Look back on recent drafts first round quarterbacks.

2023: 1. Bryce Young, 2. C.J. Stroud, 4. Anthony Richardson
2022: 20. Kenny Pickett
2021: 1. Trevor Lawrence, 2. Zach Wilson, 3. Trey Lance, 11. Justin Fields, 15. Mac Jones
2020: 1. Joe Burrow, 5. Tua Tagovailoa, 6. Justin Herbet, 26. Jordan Love
2019: 1. Kyler Murray, 6. Daniel Jones, 15. Dwayne Haskins
2018: 1. Baker Mayfield, 3, Sam Darnold, 7. Josh Allen, 10. Josh Rosen, 32. Lamar Jackson


2020 was a great year. But, even with that excellent class, I'd say there's more than a 50% miss rate (I'm not fan of Fields or Murray).

It would be great to bink a franchise quarterback who will be with the franchise for ~15 years.

However, the Patriots have lots of needs. Marvin Harrison Jr. would make any quarterback better and is probably the best prospect in the draft.

I assume the top offensive linemen and pass rushers are also more reliable than a sub-50% quarterback pick.


The Patriots should take the best player available. If that means who have to solve the short-term quarterback problem another way, then so be it.

The fact you can get a great qb without the 1.1 should further incentivize teams to take a chance on a qb in round 1.

 

[Boston]

Tom Curran is as good as you get which is why I was totally shocked when he said prior to the season he thought the Pats were a playoff-caliber team...he is also a stand-up guy and I give him a lot of credit for owning that prediction and not making excuses or screwing around with stats to pretend something is better than it really is.

Curran: Three words to describe Patriots' season? 'What a waste'

The Patriots’ success on defense this season only makes Bill Belichick’s neglect of the offense that much more frustrating, writes Tom E. Curran.

www.nbcsportsboston.com

 

[Anarchy99]

I was just going to post something very similar about Top 10 QBs from the past 15 years . . . (of course, with the caveat that some of the recent ones are still works in progress).

2023
1 - Bryce Young (hasn't looked great so far)
2 - C.J. Stroud (looks like a hit)
4 - Anthony Richardson (looked ok but only has played 4 games)

2021
1 - Trevor Lawrence (has looked great at times and so-so in others . . . but so far has not lived up to the hype)
2 - Zach Wilson (miss)
3 - Trey Lance (miss)

2020
1 - Joe Burrow (hit)
5 - Tua Tagovailoa (mostly good but time will tell)
6 - Justin Herbert (mostly good but LAC has a losing record with Herbert)

2019
1 - Kyler Murray (Got paid a ton and then got hurt . . . only one notable season so far)
6 - Daniel Jones (Got overpaid and hasn't really played up to his draft spot)

2018
1 - Baker Mayfield (6 years and 3 teams into his career before getting to above average production level)
3 - Sam Darnold (miss)
7 - Josh Allen (hit but still hasn't advanced to the SB)
10 - Josh Rosen (big miss)

2017
2 - Mitchell Trubisky (miss)
10 - Patrick Mahomes (home run)

2016
1 - Jared Goff (mixed early results, good now)
2 - Carson Wentz (4 teams in 4 years . . . had one good season)

2015
1 - Jameis Winston (was meh most of the time and now a backup)
2 - Marcus Mariota (was also meh most of the time and now a backup)

2014
3 - Blake Bortles (miss)

2012
1 - Andrew Luck (was really good but retired early)
2 - Robert Griffin (good rookie season and never recovered from injury)
8 - Ryan Tannehill (don't love him, but I guess he has more pluses than minuses)

2011
1 - Cam Newton (was solid for 8 years)
8 - Jake Locker (big miss)
10 - Blaine Gabbert (big miss)

2010
1 - Sam Bradford (mostly a miss)

2009
1 - Matthew Stafford (hit)
5 - Mark Sanchez (mostly a miss)

That's 31 QB taken in the Top 10. The clear hits were likely Stroud, Burrow, Allen, Mahomes, Luck, Newton and Stafford, with Lawrence, Tua, Herbert, Goff, and Tannehill in the "more good than bad" category. That's 12 of 31 QB. That's under 40%. I am not fully sold on any of the guys coming out this year, and my fear is the situation in NE will be far from fertile ground for someone to step in and hit the ground running. They likely have no choice but to roll the dice and take a guy near the top of the draft.

I have said all along they need a lot better production from the QB spot, and that would go a long way in improving the outlook for the team moving forward. We have no idea who will be the GM, head coach, and coordinators (or if BB may actual be back). I still think they either need to blow it up and start COMPLETELY over (ie, no one from the BB regime back) or if they somehow feel Bill can right the ship then work on beefing up the offense (as the defense should still be decent). With multiple free agents, it's really hard to tell what the team would look like by training camp.

Certainly, this year was a disaster, but they did have a lot of injuries and lost 8 one score games. With more competent QB play and fewer dumb mistakes, they may have gone 4-4 in those games and be 8-8 at this point in the season. They would still be a mediocre team with limited talent, but they probably aren't as bad as their record would indicate. I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

I see the odds of a NE win coupled with losses by both Arizona and Washington as vanishly small, so I don't see missing out on the top 3 QBs. If that occurs, I would take the top tackle and trade up for Penix or another top 6 QB at the top of round 2.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

 

[Anarchy99]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

 

[Boston]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

While I can't picture Kraft keeping him in that role but if he does there is zero chance of it happening if BB is the GM.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

While I can't picture Kraft keeping him in that role but if he does there is zero chance of it happening if BB is the GM.

I think most of us are aligned that BB will not be the GM in any NE scenario.

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

Whoever the 2024 GM is, there is zero chance of a (significant) trade down so 1 of these 4 critical needs WILL be met with the first pick (if you have confidence in MHJr and the top 3 QBs). After yesterday, pundits are now talking about the big FOUR qbs, adding Penix into the mix.

Given 2024 (huge) cap space combined with the draft, It's hard to imagine the other 3 won't also be addressed. The film shows where the needs are (oline, qb, wr).

 

[Boston]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

While I can't picture Kraft keeping him in that role but if he does there is zero chance of it happening if BB is the GM.

I think most of us are aligned that BB will not be the GM in any NE scenario.

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

Whoever the 2024 GM is, there is zero chance of a (significant) trade down so 1 of these 4 critical needs WILL be met with the first pick (if you have confidence in MHJr and the top 3 QBs). After yesterday, pundits are now talking about the big FOUR qbs, adding Penix into the mix.

Given 2024 (huge) cap space combined with the draft, It's hard to imagine the other 3 won't also be addressed. The film shows where the needs are (oline, qb, wr).

Right now they do not have signed TE on their roster for 2024 and after Stevenson there is nothing at RB as well unless you believe in Kevin Harris...they need help at every single position on offense...it is embarrassing just how bad it is.

 

[Anarchy99]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

While I can't picture Kraft keeping him in that role but if he does there is zero chance of it happening if BB is the GM.

I think most of us are aligned that BB will not be the GM in any NE scenario.

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

Whoever the 2024 GM is, there is zero chance of a (significant) trade down so 1 of these 4 critical needs WILL be met with the first pick (if you have confidence in MHJr and the top 3 QBs). After yesterday, pundits are now talking about the big FOUR qbs, adding Penix into the mix.

Given 2024 (huge) cap space combined with the draft, It's hard to imagine the other 3 won't also be addressed. The film shows where the needs are (oline, qb, wr).

Right now they do not have signed TE on their roster for 2024 and after Stevenson there is nothing at RB as well unless you believe in Kevin Harris...they need help at every single position on offense...it is embarrassing just how bad it is.

I am still stuck on the list of QB, OL, and WR. They haven't really signed or developed anyone in those spots for years. So to thing they can find contributors at QB, OT, OT, and stud WR in the same off season seems improbable. The last OT they drafted that worked out was Solder in 2011. The last WR they drafted that contributed was Edleman in 2009. And we know that QB other than TB12 has been a problem. They also have plenty of other needs, but they will struggle to fill the main ones.

 

[Boston]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

While I can't picture Kraft keeping him in that role but if he does there is zero chance of it happening if BB is the GM.

I think most of us are aligned that BB will not be the GM in any NE scenario.

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

Whoever the 2024 GM is, there is zero chance of a (significant) trade down so 1 of these 4 critical needs WILL be met with the first pick (if you have confidence in MHJr and the top 3 QBs). After yesterday, pundits are now talking about the big FOUR qbs, adding Penix into the mix.

Given 2024 (huge) cap space combined with the draft, It's hard to imagine the other 3 won't also be addressed. The film shows where the needs are (oline, qb, wr).

Right now they do not have signed TE on their roster for 2024 and after Stevenson there is nothing at RB as well unless you believe in Kevin Harris...they need help at every single position on offense...it is embarrassing just how bad it is.

I am still stuck on the list of QB, OL, and WR. They haven't really signed or developed anyone in those spots for years. So to thing they can find contributors at QB, OT, OT, and stud WR in the same off season seems improbable. The last OT they drafted that worked out was Solder in 2011. The last WR they drafted that contributed was Edleman in 2009. And we know that QB other than TB12 has been a problem. They also have plenty of other needs, but they will struggle to fill the main ones.

They have such a long way to go...this is not a one-year turnaround...the most important move they make this offseason will be at GM...if they don't bring in someone who can nail the draft/drafts they are screwed for a long time...the goal this offseason should be between the draft and the cap space they begin the process of laying down the core/foundation for the future and move on from the BB the GM era...it is now 4 full years post-Brady and this is where they should have been in year one post-Brady instead of pretending they were something they were not.

 

[kyoun1e]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

While I can't picture Kraft keeping him in that role but if he does there is zero chance of it happening if BB is the GM.

I think most of us are aligned that BB will not be the GM in any NE scenario.

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

Whoever the 2024 GM is, there is zero chance of a (significant) trade down so 1 of these 4 critical needs WILL be met with the first pick (if you have confidence in MHJr and the top 3 QBs). After yesterday, pundits are now talking about the big FOUR qbs, adding Penix into the mix.

Given 2024 (huge) cap space combined with the draft, It's hard to imagine the other 3 won't also be addressed. The film shows where the needs are (oline, qb, wr).

Right now they do not have signed TE on their roster for 2024 and after Stevenson there is nothing at RB as well unless you believe in Kevin Harris...they need help at every single position on offense...it is embarrassing just how bad it is.

I am still stuck on the list of QB, OL, and WR. They haven't really signed or developed anyone in those spots for years. So to thing they can find contributors at QB, OT, OT, and stud WR in the same off season seems improbable. The last OT they drafted that worked out was Solder in 2011. The last WR they drafted that contributed was Edleman in 2009. And we know that QB other than TB12 has been a problem. They also have plenty of other needs, but they will struggle to fill the main ones.

They have such a long way to go...this is not a one-year turnaround...the most important move they make this offseason will be at GM...if they don't bring in someone who can nail the draft/drafts they are screwed for a long time...the goal this offseason should be between the draft and the cap space they begin the process of laying down the core/foundation for the future and move on from the BB the GM era...it is now 4 full years post-Brady and this is where they should have been in year one post-Brady instead of pretending they were something they were not.

Do they have THAT long a way to go though?

The D is legit. A little more competence on offense this is a lot different. At least they know what they have to shoot at...offense.

 

[Boston]

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

While I can't picture Kraft keeping him in that role but if he does there is zero chance of it happening if BB is the GM.

I think most of us are aligned that BB will not be the GM in any NE scenario.

I don't think there is a clear path or quick fix in making the team a contender again.

two high grade offensive linemen, a game manager qb and a wide receiver who can get open. this year's defense with Judon and Gonzalez returning is good to go.

It sounds easy enough, but how long has it been since NE has been able to roster any of those players? Five years? Longer? Ever when it comes to drafting WR?

Whoever the 2024 GM is, there is zero chance of a (significant) trade down so 1 of these 4 critical needs WILL be met with the first pick (if you have confidence in MHJr and the top 3 QBs). After yesterday, pundits are now talking about the big FOUR qbs, adding Penix into the mix.

Given 2024 (huge) cap space combined with the draft, It's hard to imagine the other 3 won't also be addressed. The film shows where the needs are (oline, qb, wr).

Right now they do not have signed TE on their roster for 2024 and after Stevenson there is nothing at RB as well unless you believe in Kevin Harris...they need help at every single position on offense...it is embarrassing just how bad it is.

I am still stuck on the list of QB, OL, and WR. They haven't really signed or developed anyone in those spots for years. So to thing they can find contributors at QB, OT, OT, and stud WR in the same off season seems improbable. The last OT they drafted that worked out was Solder in 2011. The last WR they drafted that contributed was Edleman in 2009. And we know that QB other than TB12 has been a problem. They also have plenty of other needs, but they will struggle to fill the main ones.

They have such a long way to go...this is not a one-year turnaround...the most important move they make this offseason will be at GM...if they don't bring in someone who can nail the draft/drafts they are screwed for a long time...the goal this offseason should be between the draft and the cap space they begin the process of laying down the core/foundation for the future and move on from the BB the GM era...it is now 4 full years post-Brady and this is where they should have been in year one post-Brady instead of pretending they were something they were not.

Do they have THAT long a way to go though?

The D is legit. A little more competence on offense this is a lot different. At least they know what they have to shoot at...offense.

They need more than just competence on offense...they need a completely new offense...they need help at every single position including the most important one in QB...unless they get real lucky this offseason and hit on virtually every draft pick and free agent signing I think they are a couple of years away from the O being legit and that assumes they figure out the QB position quickly...while I think their D played very good this year and as much as I think BB should be gone the D could take a step backwards when he does go although that remains to be seen...as for 2024 I am not as concerned about wins and losses as I am about talent accumulation...if they are a 5 or 6 win team but have figured out the QB position and have brought in a nice haul of young players along with a good HC I will set a much higher goal for 2025 but right now I see a roster that does not have much room for error this offseason.

 

[QuizGuy66]

If you are rooting for a tank here are the games that will affect your SOS and Washington's. Atlanta vs New Orleans is interesting as that one is sorta a two game swing.

For tank purposes assuming NE gets it done and loses to the Jets:

NE wants ATL, CHI, DEN, HOU, and BAL to win

WSH wants NO, GB, LV, INDY, and PITT to win.

Not sure how sensitive the math is but I think you need 4 out of 5. 3 out of 5 might make it a push but you guys lost to Washington so that is probably okay too.

-QG

 

[Anarchy99]

If you are rooting for a tank here are the games that will affect your SOS and Washington's. Atlanta vs New Orleans is interesting as that one is sorta a two game swing.

For tank purposes assuming NE gets it done and loses to the Jets:

NE wants ATL, CHI, DEN, HOU, and BAL to win

WSH wants NO, GB, LV, INDY, and PITT to win.

Not sure how sensitive the math is but I think you need 4 out of 5. 3 out of 5 might make it a push but you guys lost to Washington so that is probably okay too.

-QG

Head to head is not part of draft order determination. It’s strictly strength of schedule. The Cowboys have a way better record than the Jets do, so if both NE and WAS lose, that alone could be enough to get the Pats the #2 pick. As you mentioned, there are multiple other games in the mix, so hard to know what the final outcome would be right now.

 

[Dynasty]

There is ONE game difference between the Patriots and Commanders going into the final week.


The 17 Patriot opponents (Jets twice) this year have a record of: 141-131 (.518). It's currently .527 without counting the Jets twice.

Dolphins: 22-10
Bills: 20-12
Jets: 12-20
Chiefs: 10-6
Broncos: 8-8
Raiders: 7-9
Chargers: 5-11
Cowboys: 11-5
Eagles: 11-5
Giants: 5-11
Commanders: 4-12
Saints: 8-8
Colts: 9-7
Steelers: 9-7

The 17 Commander opponents (Cowboys twice) this year have a record of: 140-132 (.515). It's currently .504 without counting the Cowboys twice.

Cowboys: 22-10
Eagles: 22-10
Giants: 10-22
49ers: 12-4
Rams: 9-7
Seahawks: 8-8
Cardinals: 4-12
Dolphins: 11-5
Bills: 10-6
Jets: 6-10
Patriots: 4-12
Broncos: 8-8
Bears: 7-9
Falcons: 7-9

 

[Gatorman]

Pats fans: Where do you go from here? Miami when they pushed Shula out for Jimmy had a solid coach waiting in the wings who couldn't mesh with the franchise QB. The Pats do not have those issues as there in no coach angling for the job and there is no player on the Pats who has the prestige of Dan when this occurred.

So, if the pats clean house the most important hire is likely the GM, followed by the coach. If Vrabel is really not "signed" to stay in Tennessee that should be the guy IMHO and as a dolphin fan the last thing I would want to see is a Vrabel coached team in the AFCE. I have no idea who his GM would be. Outside of that reality, who else can assume the mantle from Bill B? At least Jimmy had a Championship pedigree when he took over for Don; Is there anyone out there that makes the pats fanbase toes tingle? or do you think the next coach is just a "rebound guy" to right the ship

(as a Fin Fan I secretly hope it will be Flores...)

 

[QuizGuy66]

This seems to say they go to further tiebreakers

-QG

 

[QuizGuy66]

This lays it out a little clearer

So that head to head game would come into play if Washington and New England are tied on SOS


QG

 

[Anarchy99]

This seems to say they go to further tiebreakers

-QG

I think I misread what you posted. HTH is a tiebreaker if teams end up having with exactly the same strength of schedule. I can't remember if it was you or someone else that suggested HTH was the first tiebreaker (which it isn't).

 

[QuizGuy66]

I meant only in the case where New England gets 3 of the 5 needed results cuz IIANM that puts them in a tie on SOS.

-QG

 

[Dynasty]

The Steelers win hurts us.

We're 1.5 games behind now.

The 17 Patriot opponents (Jets twice) this year have a record of: 142-131 (.520).

Dolphins: 22-10
Bills: 20-12
Jets: 12-20
Chiefs: 10-6
Broncos: 8-8
Raiders: 7-9
Chargers: 5-11
Cowboys: 11-5
Eagles: 11-5
Giants: 5-11
Commanders: 4-12
Saints: 8-8
Colts: 9-7
Steelers: 10-7

The 17 Commander opponents (Cowboys twice) this year have a record of: 140-132 (.515).

Cowboys: 22-10
Eagles: 22-10
Giants: 10-22
49ers: 12-4
Rams: 9-7
Seahawks: 8-8
Cardinals: 4-12
Dolphins: 11-5
Bills: 10-6
Jets: 6-10
Patriots: 4-12
Broncos: 8-8
Bears: 7-9
Falcons: 7-9

 

[SoBeDad]

Who will tank better? The 4-12 Patriots or the 6-10 Jets? They're drafting 3rd and 8th now with a chance to go up or down a slot or 2.

 

[Mingooch]

I dont see BB tanking, plus he hates the Jets. The Jets are a walking tanking.

 

[kyoun1e]

Teams we're rooting for today:

Jets
ATL
CHI
AZ
DEN

HOU did us a solid last night. BALT not so much.

I'm betting NE -2 today unfortunately. Don't see them losing...especially in the snow. Only hope for a loss is a Zappe int returned for a TD.

Pats 10-7.

 

[Boston]

For you youngsters who have been so pleasantly spoiled we are now Back to the Future with the Pats...this is how it used to be back in the day...last week of the year and we are now worried about draft position and who the next HC will be...it's like Billy and Patrick Sullivan will be on the sideline today...memories of Ken Sims, Irving Fryar, **** McPherson and Rod Rust.

 

[Boston]

Patriots honor team captain Matthew Slater with special pregame hoodie

Matthew Slater could be playing his final NFL game Sunday, and his Patriots teammates found a cool way to honor him before kickoff.

www.nbcsportsboston.com

 

[fruity pebbles]

Locked into either the #2 or 3 pick. Likely 3rd. Mission accomplished.

 

[SoBeDad]

Locked into either the #2 or 3 pick. Likely 3rd. Mission accomplished.

I'm a big Cowboys fan for the next 3 hours.

 

[fruity pebbles]

Locked into either the #2 or 3 pick. Likely 3rd. Mission accomplished.

I'm a big Cowboys fan for the next 3 hours.

To lose

 

[Boston]

Washington getting beat up so it looks like it will the #3 pick...Williams, Maye. Daniels or Harrison...will be one of those four...I just ask that anyone who says pass on a QB give a plan as to what to do at that position because it sure as hell isn't on the current roster.

 

[fruity pebbles]

Washington getting beat up so it looks like it will the #3 pick...Williams, Maye. Daniels or Harrison...will be one of those four...I just ask that anyone who says pass on a QB give a plan as to what to do at that position because it sure as hell isn't on the current roster.

I’ve seen a lot of MH and use your #2 to move up for Penix. Unfortunately that’s a big risk though cause when it’s all said and done I wouldn’t be surprised to see Penix go mid 1st and the Pats miss out.

 

[Boston]

Washington getting beat up so it looks like it will the #3 pick...Williams, Maye. Daniels or Harrison...will be one of those four...I just ask that anyone who says pass on a QB give a plan as to what to do at that position because it sure as hell isn't on the current roster.

I’ve seen a lot of MH and use your #2 to move up for Penix. Unfortunately that’s a big risk though cause when it’s all said and done I wouldn’t be surprised to see Penix go mid 1st and the Pats miss out.

One, Penix is a real wildcard as to where he goes...if his medicals are clean it is easy to see him end up top 10...two, unfortunately the Pats have a lot of holes and not many extra assets to move in trades...not making any moves at the deadline was another failure of the front office this season...now they do have a ton of cap space and free agency comes before the draft so maybe it looks different right before the draft but right now they need every pick they have.