Indefinite New England Patriots Thread (1 Viewer)

[Anarchy99]

But, that's the floor.

This is obviously not the floor if a bunch of injuries happen. If Maye goes down for the season next week (and a couple of other key pieces get hurt), they could still be in a situation where they only end up with 5 or 6 wins.

Yes, they are better than the past few seasons when they don't fundamentally make self-inflicted mistakes (ie, tons of turnovers or stupid penalties). But they played 3 of the weakest teams in the league in LV, MIA, and CAR . . . and PIT's defense is Bottom 5 in the league. Their schedule could hand them a lot of wins.

As for the remaining schedule, of the 12 remaining games, 10 of them are against teams ranked 20th or worse in either points scored or yardage. And 10 are against defenses ranked 20th or worse in points allowed or yardage allowed. NE should win those games and end up with a strong record. But IMO, that would really be heavily influenced by the schedule.

 

[kyoun1e]

They should make a run for AJ Brown. Probably unlikely as they are in their championship window and probably don't want to mess with things.

AJ Brown, Diggs, Henry...that would be nice.

As an aside, REALLY impressed with the defense last night. Did not think they had that in them after the first few weeks. Something must have come together.

Hard not to get excited. Also finding it hard to keep my expectations in check.

 

[Boston]

They should make a run for AJ Brown. Probably unlikely as they are in their championship window and probably don't want to mess with things.

AJ Brown, Diggs, Henry...that would be nice.

As an aside, REALLY impressed with the defense last night. Did not think they had that in them after the first few weeks. Something must have come together.

Hard not to get excited. Also finding it hard to keep my expectations in check.

I can't see Philly dealing AJB during a season when they have a chance to win the Super Bowl...not sure how the $ would work but I could definitely see the Pats and Eagles talking trade this offseason...overall, there is so much to be excited about...first and foremost, Maye is the real deal...hard to believe there were those advocating not to draft him last year but because they got him it just makes everything else so much easier...Vrabel is a legit HC and has put his stamp on this team very quickly...the fact McDaniels will not get another chance at being an HC is a bonus as that will give Maye stability...right now the draft looks like a home run...Campbell has been great (another player that some fans did not want them to take), Wilson and Woodson are starting, Henderson is a solid contributor with a ton of upside and after a slow start Borreagales looks like he will be their kicker a long time...I expect Williams to be a factor at some point and I still believe that Chism (UDFA) can play...Farmer is getting snaps (and made a foolish play last night) and right now Bryant is on the roster, and I hold out some hope he can take over for Moses at some point...on the free agent front Milton Williams has been an awesome signing, Diggs looks fantastic, Landry has been playing very well, Carlton Davis gives stability on the other side of Gonzalez, Morgan Moses is doing exactly what he was brought here to do and Bradbury has been an upgrade...overall you could not have asked for more...when the season ended last year it looked like it was gonna be a very long road back but they are way ahead of schedule right now and there can be zero doubt Vrabel is the man for this job...there will still be some ups and downs but I do think they can contend for a playoff spot with their schedule and Maye's development...after that if they can nail another draft and another couple of good FA signings they have a chance to be a legit contender...so nice to put the stink of Mr. Jor-Don's last two seasons and the Mayo debacle behind us...it is on to New Orleans!

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

They should make a run for AJ Brown. Probably unlikely as they are in their championship window and probably don't want to mess with things.

AJ Brown, Diggs, Henry...that would be nice.

As an aside, REALLY impressed with the defense last night. Did not think they had that in them after the first few weeks. Something must have come together.

Hard not to get excited. Also finding it hard to keep my expectations in check.

a couple thoughts on the defense.....1. Gonzo lifts all secondary boats 2. the linebackers have been dogpoo but played well yesterday...spillane actually made a couple of good plays 3. the Bills played sloppy and got out-coached.

 

[JohnnyU]

They should make a run for AJ Brown. Probably unlikely as they are in their championship window and probably don't want to mess with things.

AJ Brown, Diggs, Henry...that would be nice.

As an aside, REALLY impressed with the defense last night. Did not think they had that in them after the first few weeks. Something must have come together.

Hard not to get excited. Also finding it hard to keep my expectations in check.

a couple thoughts on the defense.....1. Gonzo lifts all secondary boats 2. the linebackers have been dogpoo but played well yesterday...spillane actually made a couple of good plays 3. the Bills played sloppy and got out-coached.

I really like that Gonzalez kid.

 

[Boston]

They should make a run for AJ Brown. Probably unlikely as they are in their championship window and probably don't want to mess with things.

AJ Brown, Diggs, Henry...that would be nice.

As an aside, REALLY impressed with the defense last night. Did not think they had that in them after the first few weeks. Something must have come together.

Hard not to get excited. Also finding it hard to keep my expectations in check.

a couple thoughts on the defense.....1. Gonzo lifts all secondary boats 2. the linebackers have been dogpoo but played well yesterday...spillane actually made a couple of good plays 3. the Bills played sloppy and got out-coached.

I can definitely see LB being a focus this upcoming offseason...Vrabel wanted to concentrate on the trenches this offseason and that plan is paying dividends.

 

[Born to Run]

They should make a run for AJ Brown. Probably unlikely as they are in their championship window and probably don't want to mess with things.

AJ Brown, Diggs, Henry...that would be nice.

As an aside, REALLY impressed with the defense last night. Did not think they had that in them after the first few weeks. Something must have come together.

Hard not to get excited. Also finding it hard to keep my expectations in check.

a couple thoughts on the defense.....1. Gonzo lifts all secondary boats 2. the linebackers have been dogpoo but played well yesterday...spillane actually made a couple of good plays 3. the Bills played sloppy and got out-coached.

4. da Bills had 11 accepted penalties for 90 total yards (a big part of the Pats Def effort)

 

[Boston]

Gibson with an ACL...tough loss, he's a solid RB who can help on special teams...they were already thin at RB before this...will be interesting to see what they add.

 

[Bossman]

What a difference in this NE D with Christian Gonzalez back.
Josh Allen standing in the pocket like a statue ...with nobody to throw to last night.
That said, the BUF O-line is fantastic... or NE needs to find some better pass rushers. It was scary the amount of time Allen had to throw it.
TE's continue to be a problem for this defense. I guess they just don't have an answer on the roster.
All that said, let's keep things in perspective. NE beat a SB contender last night... but BUF is far from flawless.

 

[kyoun1e]

Looking at the schedule I'm going to be surprised if NE is NOT favored in any of these games.

Scary.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

The New England Patriots have confirming the signing of running back Jashaun Corbin to the practice squad. In order to accommodate Corbin’s signing, the Pats released offensive lineman Royce Newman from the scout team.

Corbin has spent time with the New York Giants, Carolina Panthers and the Atlanta Falcons after originally joining the Giants as a rookie free agent out of Florida State in May 2022. The 5’11” 215-pound rusher spent his rookie season on the practice squad in 2022 and then briefly was on the Carolina practice squad in 2023 before returning to the Giants. The 25-year-old appeared in six games for the Giants and finished with one rushing attempt for one yard and three receptions for 12 yards during the 2024 season.

Earlier this year, Corbin played for the San Antonio Brahmas of the UFL, leading the league in rushing yards with 514 yards on 97 carries with four touchdowns and 18 receptions for 138 yards. He also gained 252 yards as a kick returner. He went to training camp with Atlanta this past summer but was released prior to the start of the season. Corbin now joins veteran Terrell Jennings on the Patriots’ practice squad.

source

 

[Bossman]

Looking at the schedule I'm going to be surprised if NE is NOT favored in any of these games.

Scary.

True. On paper, it's looking like a 10 or 11 win season for them.
Beating the Bills makes up for gifting that game to the Steelers.
I'm sure Bills fan feels like we do about that Steelers game. Would have won if not for all the turnovers.
I think NE is right back where we expected they would be as far as W's and L's.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

Looking at the schedule I'm going to be surprised if NE is NOT favored in any of these games.

Scary.

True. On paper, it's looking like a 10 or 11 win season for them.
Beating the Bills makes up for gifting that game to the Steelers.
I'm sure Bills fan feels like we do about that Steelers game. Would have won if not for all the turnovers.
I think NE is right back where we expected they would be as far as W's and L's.

two biggest caveats are (a) lack of depth across the roster and (b) running game sucks.

 

[kyoun1e]

Looking at the schedule I'm going to be surprised if NE is NOT favored in any of these games.

Scary.

True. On paper, it's looking like a 10 or 11 win season for them.
Beating the Bills makes up for gifting that game to the Steelers.
I'm sure Bills fan feels like we do about that Steelers game. Would have won if not for all the turnovers.
I think NE is right back where we expected they would be as far as W's and L's.

Was watching Curren and Perry last night and they were cutting to clips of Hoyer and Andrews counting up the wins. They were at 13.

Lol.

They Maye hype train is off the rails at this point. Hope Vrabel keeps them in check this week. Would be a travesty to slip up down on Bourbon Street this Sunday.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

Looking at the schedule I'm going to be surprised if NE is NOT favored in any of these games.

Scary.

True. On paper, it's looking like a 10 or 11 win season for them.
Beating the Bills makes up for gifting that game to the Steelers.
I'm sure Bills fan feels like we do about that Steelers game. Would have won if not for all the turnovers.
I think NE is right back where we expected they would be as far as W's and L's.

Was watching Curren and Perry last night and they were cutting to clips of Hoyer and Andrews counting up the wins. They were at 13.

Lol.

They Maye hype train is off the rails at this point. Hope Vrabel keeps them in check this week. Would be a travesty to slip up down on Bourbon Street this Sunday.

agreed. based on context, I give NO at least a coin toss chance of a win, Vegas be damned.

 

[Bossman]

NE was fortunate to get the win this week. Took some ridiculous pass plays on offense (or just pathetic NOS defense) and another opportunistic turnover on what might have been the game winning drive by NOS.
I DO appreciate the fact that Maye seems to be no longer afraid to air it out.

 

[Bri]

Welp...it's probably for the best.

The Titans have long had this international TE that is a supreme blocker. Lots of pancake videos in preseason each year and as our tackles stink I'm screaming for them to at least put him in to help. It's been years and he almost never plays and it drives me nuts because the coaches also rave about the guy.

Apparently Vrabel watched Titans highlights and remembered his fondness for Odukoya. Idk that he even plays for the Pats with their TE room.

He's a perfect student. Blocks exactly as a coach says and then there's a defender on their rear. Maybe Vrabel wants him in practice embarrassing DL that don't use proper techniques? Maybe some offensive linemen need technique work and an example? Idk but again I can't imagine him playing but I can imagine Vrabel ecstatic to have him.

The praise from staff and what I saw never equated to playing time for some weird reason I'll never understand. Y'all got an absolute bull though.

 

[Bri]

FF people expecting Pats to run a zillion times with Titans having more edges on IR than healthy.

They were probably doing that anyway.

Vrabel knows better than to run at Big Jeff and no one sees Sweat and thinks let's run at him.

I think the question is, is this the week Treyveon explodes? They might be just fine at stopping Rhamondre but speed to the outside could be a huge deal.

****

Vrabel's knowledge may have them taking advantage of something but there's been massive roster turnover.
Who doesn't know the Titans safeties?
Their LBs tackle late and the CBs haven't been much since Brownlee was given away.
Every opponent absolutely thrives with short to mid range passes and screens which they seem powerless to stop.
I completely expect the Pats to beat em the same way

There's more of a prob of "do we win by 50 or rest n get guys healthy" than anything else

 

[Bri]

I saw Vrabel said some nice things about Odukoya. Good player, great teammate also unquestioned effort on every rep.

I see a lot of blocking highlights shared on X

Here's a stat for ya of a single play where he hunted down a defender to save a TD.

https://x.com/jwyattsports/status/1828846887241179311

 

[Bri]

I know earlier y'all said there wasn't a pressing need and the Titans have said they aren't trading Big Jeff but the rumor seemed to pick up some steam this weekend.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

Lets play the desired trade by position game. I'll go first.

Tier 1

Running back

Tier 2

Linebacker
Tight End

Tier 3

Wide receiver
Edge rush

Swap Dugger to the Vikings as a box safety for a coverage safety or linebacker depth. Pay some of his salary if needed. He's good in the box but doesn't have a role in Vrable's speed emphasis defense.

 

[Boston]

I know earlier y'all said there wasn't a pressing need and the Titans have said they aren't trading Big Jeff but the rumor seemed to pick up some steam this weekend.

I haven't see anything locally about the Pats sniffing around Simmons...while Simmons is a stud with Williams and Barmore both young, playing well and making big $ I don't see how that would fit, especially with how much you would have to give up to get him...the Titan some of the local media think the Pats may have interest in is Key as a lot of the reports are the Pats would like to add an edge rusher.

 

[Boston]

Great Q&A with Perry that hits on a few topics that we are discussing:

Perry's Mailbag: Familiar faces on trade market, an RB conundrum and more

Should the Patriots target a player with ties to the current coaching staff at the NFL trade deadline? Phil Perry opens up his latest Mailbag.

www.nbcsportsboston.com

 

[Bri]

Lets play the desired trade by position game. I'll go first.

Tier 1

Running back

Tier 2

Linebacker
Tight End

Tier 3

Wide receiver
Edge rush

Swap Dugger to the Vikings as a box safety for a coverage safety or linebacker depth. Pay some of his salary if needed. He's good in the box but doesn't have a role in Vrable's speed emphasis defense.

I never heard Chig to Pats. Interesting considering he's long been trade bait.

It seems Odukoya is also going to be a great guy to have around and not actually play much for you guys too.

I think there's a good amount of decent serviceable depth TEs as backups around the league. With the Raiders supposedly considering fire sale mode, I would trade for Mayer. When Brock was drafted I was saying didn't y'all tell me they had a good rookie TE the year before? and ok they went with a stud but...Mayer looks good.

Bellinger always looks grunt tough type good. The type of depth fillin starter that bad teams don't value properly. I'd definitely try to trade for him too because he's probably also always gonna have an affordable contract.

I think the Jets are crazy how they adored Hall when they drafted him and have minimized him ever since. This summer he looked smooth catching passes and they don't throw him the ball despite a bad line and QB needing to dump it. Despite tons of talent, the production and usage (til recently) I wonder how much he'd really cost. RB market was putrid two years ago. I'd kick the tires there.

Jaylen Wright is probably the need Henderson isn't filling and Jennings seems questionable despite Vrabel's statements. Wright has third down scat back written all over him and he never plays. Idk that he's big play go the distance type but he's fast and can get third down back type nice 10 yard scampers.

I'm not certain the Titans love Spears. He's always hurt. They seem ready to be an expansion team and have nothing going into 2026. Vrabel used to be a fan.

I think with Henderson, y'all can't trade for a back that costs too much. Backup RBs have pretty common NFL salaries so who cares if they're not there next year or they are and...again RB market.... I'd trade for speed. IIRC Spears and Wright have lined out wide and returned kicks or punts and...maybe add usefulness to it

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

As far as Meyers goes...my opinion which isn't worth much...is that he's not definitively better than Boutte who is paying dividends in McDaniels system...so do I really want to trade to "upgrade" the Douglas/Williams/Chism/Hollins sphere or to have a better backup if Diggs or Boutte go down...keeping in mind that depth is a problem all across the roster? I could understand trading for a second WR stud...but I don't think Meyers is that.

 

[Boston]

As far as Meyers goes...my opinion which isn't worth much...is that he's not definitively better than Boutte who is paying dividends in McDaniels system...so do I really want to trade to "upgrade" the Douglas/Williams/Chism/Hollins sphere or to have a better backup if Diggs or Boutte go down...keeping in mind that depth is a problem all across the roster? I could understand trading for a second WR stud...but I don't think Meyers is that.

He would also be a rental so unless he comes dirt cheap I don't really see the need when there are other holes to fill...I would like to see another RB added...not so much to be better than Stevenson and Henderson but because they are just so thin there right now...I get the feeling D will be more of a focus if they make some moves.

 

[Bri]

NWI was paid way too much by Miami. He's like a sub tough rebounder in hoops. He doesn't care about contact and maybe even likes it. He's a bit weird for a WR. He's a gem on ST. Vrabel adores him.

If the Fins are willing to eat some of his $, he might be someone here. Tough catch ability, short to mid range, he might minimize the TE need too.

Many years ago we used to say do you want a player or a piece? He's a piece- only. That might be good with Williams and Boutte around. No threat of stealing their job and yet capable

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

NWI was paid way too much by Miami. He's like a sub tough rebounder in hoops. He doesn't care about contact and maybe even likes it. He's a bit weird for a WR. He's a gem on ST. Vrabel adores him.

If the Fins are willing to eat some of his $, he might be someone here. Tough catch ability, short to mid range, he might minimize the TE need too.

Many years ago we used to say do you want a player or a piece? He's a piece- only. That might be good with Williams and Boutte around. No threat of stealing their job and yet capable

I'm not rejecting the idea....just noting that he's 6'2" / 220lbs and Mack Hollins is 6'4" / 220lbs. Of course NWI is a far better receiver....let's do this: add NWI AND add a quality TE to Henry/Hooper.

 

[Bri]

NWI was paid way too much by Miami. He's like a sub tough rebounder in hoops. He doesn't care about contact and maybe even likes it. He's a bit weird for a WR. He's a gem on ST. Vrabel adores him.

If the Fins are willing to eat some of his $, he might be someone here. Tough catch ability, short to mid range, he might minimize the TE need too.

Many years ago we used to say do you want a player or a piece? He's a piece- only. That might be good with Williams and Boutte around. No threat of stealing their job and yet capable

I'm not rejecting the idea....just noting that he's 6'2" / 220lbs and Mack Hollins is 6'4" / 220lbs. Of course NWI is a far better receiver....let's do this: add NWI AND add a quality TE to Henry/Hooper.

Yeah maybe no need with Mack. I do wonder why I don't see him more. Some games he had snaps and I just didn't notice.

Maybe Vrabel wants the big WR for the cold weather?

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

NWI was paid way too much by Miami. He's like a sub tough rebounder in hoops. He doesn't care about contact and maybe even likes it. He's a bit weird for a WR. He's a gem on ST. Vrabel adores him.

If the Fins are willing to eat some of his $, he might be someone here. Tough catch ability, short to mid range, he might minimize the TE need too.

Many years ago we used to say do you want a player or a piece? He's a piece- only. That might be good with Williams and Boutte around. No threat of stealing their job and yet capable

I'm not rejecting the idea....just noting that he's 6'2" / 220lbs and Mack Hollins is 6'4" / 220lbs. Of course NWI is a far better receiver....let's do this: add NWI AND add a quality TE to Henry/Hooper.

Yeah maybe no need with Mack. I do wonder why I don't see him more. Some games he had snaps and I just didn't notice.

Maybe Vrabel wants the big WR for the cold weather?

Think of their WR3 as a blend of Douglas, Hollins and Williams. AND they run a lot of 21 personnel. AND sometimes Vrable and McDaniels think of WR2 and WR3 purely as blocking widgets lol.

 

[Boston]

The three game stretch of very winnable games is over and they went pretty much how you would hope they would...New Orleans was a bit of a trap game after winning at Buffalo so you weren't looking for style points just a W...Tennessee and Cleveland were solid wins that despite first halves that had a few ups and downs turned into wins where they took care of business in a positive way...sticking with looking at the schedule in three game increments Atlanta at home is up next and the Falcons are a complete wildcard as you don't know which team will show up, since this is at home I would like to see them grind out a win...Tampa on the road is a very big test and will give us more of a clue of just how good they are...after that it is the Jets at home where they have a great opportunity to get a W...if they go 2-1 here that gets you to 8-3 with games against Cincy on the road, home against the Giants, at the Jets and home against the Dolphins remaining (other games are home against the Bills and at the Ravens with Lamar most likely back)...going into the year I was hoping for 8ish wins with the team and Maye developing in a positive manner...between this team being more improved than even the biggest homer could hope for, Drake Maye turning into a franchise QB and what looks to be a favorable schedule they have a chance to finish in that 10-12 win area and be a legit playoff team...gotta give Vrabel a ton of credit...I was a big fan of his hire (along with McDaniels) and while they still have holes, they are way further along than I could have hoped for in August.

 

[kyoun1e]

The three game stretch of very winnable games is over and they went pretty much how you would hope they would...New Orleans was a bit of a trap game after winning at Buffalo so you weren't looking for style points just a W...Tennessee and Cleveland were solid wins that despite first halves that had a few ups and downs turned into wins where they took care of business in a positive way...sticking with looking at the schedule in three game increments Atlanta at home is up next and the Falcons are a complete wildcard as you don't know which team will show up, since this is at home I would like to see them grind out a win...Tampa on the road is a very big test and will give us more of a clue of just how good they are...after that it is the Jets at home where they have a great opportunity to get a W...if they go 2-1 here that gets you to 8-3 with games against Cincy on the road, home against the Giants, at the Jets and home against the Dolphins remaining (other games are home against the Bills and at the Ravens with Lamar most likely back)...going into the year I was hoping for 8ish wins with the team and Maye developing in a positive manner...between this team being more improved than even the biggest homer could hope for, Drake Maye turning into a franchise QB and what looks to be a favorable schedule they have a chance to finish in that 10-12 win area and be a legit playoff team...gotta give Vrabel a ton of credit...I was a big fan of his hire (along with McDaniels) and while they still have holes, they are way further along than I could have hoped for in August.

Honestly, there was a lot of bad football played yesterday by some mediocre teams. Nobody really scares me outside of KC in the AFC.

TB away? Eh. That should be competitive. Maye will be able to pass on that secondary.

It will not surprise me if NE wins way more games than we thought and stroll into the playoffs. That said, it could be a tad fraudulent due to the schedule and it then wouldn't surprise me if they lose immediately.

Regardless, the arrow is pointing WAY up for the future.

Really hope they make a move for a supporting RB piece, but a BIGGER WR piece at the deadline.

 

[Boston]

The three game stretch of very winnable games is over and they went pretty much how you would hope they would...New Orleans was a bit of a trap game after winning at Buffalo so you weren't looking for style points just a W...Tennessee and Cleveland were solid wins that despite first halves that had a few ups and downs turned into wins where they took care of business in a positive way...sticking with looking at the schedule in three game increments Atlanta at home is up next and the Falcons are a complete wildcard as you don't know which team will show up, since this is at home I would like to see them grind out a win...Tampa on the road is a very big test and will give us more of a clue of just how good they are...after that it is the Jets at home where they have a great opportunity to get a W...if they go 2-1 here that gets you to 8-3 with games against Cincy on the road, home against the Giants, at the Jets and home against the Dolphins remaining (other games are home against the Bills and at the Ravens with Lamar most likely back)...going into the year I was hoping for 8ish wins with the team and Maye developing in a positive manner...between this team being more improved than even the biggest homer could hope for, Drake Maye turning into a franchise QB and what looks to be a favorable schedule they have a chance to finish in that 10-12 win area and be a legit playoff team...gotta give Vrabel a ton of credit...I was a big fan of his hire (along with McDaniels) and while they still have holes, they are way further along than I could have hoped for in August.

Honestly, there was a lot of bad football played yesterday by some mediocre teams. Nobody really scares me outside of KC in the AFC.

TB away? Eh. That should be competitive. Maye will be able to pass on that secondary.

It will not surprise me if NE wins way more games than we thought and stroll into the playoffs. That said, it could be a tad fraudulent due to the schedule and it then wouldn't surprise me if they lose immediately.

Regardless, the arrow is pointing WAY up for the future.

Really hope they make a move for a supporting RB piece, but a BIGGER WR piece at the deadline.

I don't think they will make a move for a WR (or at least a big move) at the deadline...my guess is they chase that in the offseason...could definitely see a Jerome Ford type of RB added as they are real thin there...for offense it wouldn't bother me if they added a TE with a specific skill-set like blocking or an athletic pass-catcher...if Hooper or Henry get hurt they would be in trouble.

 

[Lansdowne]

The three game stretch of very winnable games is over and they went pretty much how you would hope they would...New Orleans was a bit of a trap game after winning at Buffalo so you weren't looking for style points just a W...Tennessee and Cleveland were solid wins that despite first halves that had a few ups and downs turned into wins where they took care of business in a positive way...sticking with looking at the schedule in three game increments Atlanta at home is up next and the Falcons are a complete wildcard as you don't know which team will show up, since this is at home I would like to see them grind out a win...Tampa on the road is a very big test and will give us more of a clue of just how good they are...after that it is the Jets at home where they have a great opportunity to get a W...if they go 2-1 here that gets you to 8-3 with games against Cincy on the road, home against the Giants, at the Jets and home against the Dolphins remaining (other games are home against the Bills and at the Ravens with Lamar most likely back)...going into the year I was hoping for 8ish wins with the team and Maye developing in a positive manner...between this team being more improved than even the biggest homer could hope for, Drake Maye turning into a franchise QB and what looks to be a favorable schedule they have a chance to finish in that 10-12 win area and be a legit playoff team...gotta give Vrabel a ton of credit...I was a big fan of his hire (along with McDaniels) and while they still have holes, they are way further along than I could have hoped for in August.

Honestly, there was a lot of bad football played yesterday by some mediocre teams. Nobody really scares me outside of KC in the AFC.

TB away? Eh. That should be competitive. Maye will be able to pass on that secondary.

It will not surprise me if NE wins way more games than we thought and stroll into the playoffs. That said, it could be a tad fraudulent due to the schedule and it then wouldn't surprise me if they lose immediately.

Regardless, the arrow is pointing WAY up for the future.

Really hope they make a move for a supporting RB piece, but a BIGGER WR piece at the deadline.

The Pats have a mediocre run game and haven't really been punished for it *yet*. I can see them struggling against a tougher opponent in a close game or even a scenario where they need to try to milk the clock. Though it's been a weird year where Philadelphia and San Francisco have been struggling with the run too and yet they have winning records as well, so who knows. The AFC is looking relatively weak currently but I'm sure it'll pick up close to playoff time and we get a better idea of who the strongest teams are. Honestly, I'm just giddy that the Pats are in the playoff discussion halfway through the season instead of looking at the tankathon standings. Having a last place schedule helps but Mayo's team last year had a last place schedule as well and couldn't do anything with it. This season is what happens when you have grown-ups in the room.

 

[Boston]

Sounds like Terrell Jennings will be elevated to the 53 man roster as he is out of options if he isn’t.

 

[Jewell]

Nobody really scares me outside of KC in the AFC.

While I agree that the Chiefs should remain the most feared team in the AFC until proven otherwise, I also think the Colts are scary good.

“The Colts have the highest average points per drive this century, with a rate of 3.46 points per drive through the first seven weeks of the 2025 season. This efficiency is statistically the most efficient offense by this metric in the 21st century, surpassing the 2007 Patriots, who had 3.19 points per drive.”

 

[kyoun1e]

Nobody really scares me outside of KC in the AFC.

While I agree that the Chiefs should remain the most feared team in the AFC until proven otherwise, I also think the Colts are scary good.

“The Colts have the highest average points per drive this century, with a rate of 3.46 points per drive through the first seven weeks of the 2025 season. This efficiency is statistically the most efficient offense by this metric in the 21st century, surpassing the 2007 Patriots, who had 3.19 points per drive.”

I think their D can be had. Think Maye would do fine vs. Indy.

NE's run D could do ok vs. Taylor and maybe Vrabel could turn D. Jones back into a pumpkin.

 

[Boston]

The three game stretch of very winnable games is over and they went pretty much how you would hope they would...New Orleans was a bit of a trap game after winning at Buffalo so you weren't looking for style points just a W...Tennessee and Cleveland were solid wins that despite first halves that had a few ups and downs turned into wins where they took care of business in a positive way...sticking with looking at the schedule in three game increments Atlanta at home is up next and the Falcons are a complete wildcard as you don't know which team will show up, since this is at home I would like to see them grind out a win...Tampa on the road is a very big test and will give us more of a clue of just how good they are...after that it is the Jets at home where they have a great opportunity to get a W...if they go 2-1 here that gets you to 8-3 with games against Cincy on the road, home against the Giants, at the Jets and home against the Dolphins remaining (other games are home against the Bills and at the Ravens with Lamar most likely back)...going into the year I was hoping for 8ish wins with the team and Maye developing in a positive manner...between this team being more improved than even the biggest homer could hope for, Drake Maye turning into a franchise QB and what looks to be a favorable schedule they have a chance to finish in that 10-12 win area and be a legit playoff team...gotta give Vrabel a ton of credit...I was a big fan of his hire (along with McDaniels) and while they still have holes, they are way further along than I could have hoped for in August.

Honestly, there was a lot of bad football played yesterday by some mediocre teams. Nobody really scares me outside of KC in the AFC.

TB away? Eh. That should be competitive. Maye will be able to pass on that secondary.

It will not surprise me if NE wins way more games than we thought and stroll into the playoffs. That said, it could be a tad fraudulent due to the schedule and it then wouldn't surprise me if they lose immediately.

Regardless, the arrow is pointing WAY up for the future.

Really hope they make a move for a supporting RB piece, but a BIGGER WR piece at the deadline.

Should Patriots trade for Saints WR Rashid Shaheed? Pros, cons to potential deal

The Saints reportedly are open to dealing Rashid Shaheed before the NFL trade deadline, and Patriots insider Phil Perry would be interested.

www.nbcsportsboston.com

 

[Boston]

Pats extend Marcus Jones...smart signing...the kid has turned into a very good player and brings some attitude as well.

Patriots lock up Marcus Jones with extension amid CB's career year

Marcus Jones is sticking around, as the Patriots rewarded their talented slot cornerback with a contract extension Tuesday.

www.nbcsportsboston.com

 

[kyoun1e]

The three game stretch of very winnable games is over and they went pretty much how you would hope they would...New Orleans was a bit of a trap game after winning at Buffalo so you weren't looking for style points just a W...Tennessee and Cleveland were solid wins that despite first halves that had a few ups and downs turned into wins where they took care of business in a positive way...sticking with looking at the schedule in three game increments Atlanta at home is up next and the Falcons are a complete wildcard as you don't know which team will show up, since this is at home I would like to see them grind out a win...Tampa on the road is a very big test and will give us more of a clue of just how good they are...after that it is the Jets at home where they have a great opportunity to get a W...if they go 2-1 here that gets you to 8-3 with games against Cincy on the road, home against the Giants, at the Jets and home against the Dolphins remaining (other games are home against the Bills and at the Ravens with Lamar most likely back)...going into the year I was hoping for 8ish wins with the team and Maye developing in a positive manner...between this team being more improved than even the biggest homer could hope for, Drake Maye turning into a franchise QB and what looks to be a favorable schedule they have a chance to finish in that 10-12 win area and be a legit playoff team...gotta give Vrabel a ton of credit...I was a big fan of his hire (along with McDaniels) and while they still have holes, they are way further along than I could have hoped for in August.

Honestly, there was a lot of bad football played yesterday by some mediocre teams. Nobody really scares me outside of KC in the AFC.

TB away? Eh. That should be competitive. Maye will be able to pass on that secondary.

It will not surprise me if NE wins way more games than we thought and stroll into the playoffs. That said, it could be a tad fraudulent due to the schedule and it then wouldn't surprise me if they lose immediately.

Regardless, the arrow is pointing WAY up for the future.

Really hope they make a move for a supporting RB piece, but a BIGGER WR piece at the deadline.

Should Patriots trade for Saints WR Rashid Shaheed? Pros, cons to potential deal

The Saints reportedly are open to dealing Rashid Shaheed before the NFL trade deadline, and Patriots insider Phil Perry would be interested.

www.nbcsportsboston.com

He would certainly stretch the field even more.

Would scare the hell out of Ds the way Maye is throwing the long ball.

 

[kyoun1e]

Pats trade K. White?

For 6th rounder?

Damn.

I thought he had promise under Vrabel. Must not be one of his guys.

 

[Boston]

Pats just traded Keion White and a #7 to San Fran for a #6 (I swear 70% of NFL trades have this trade format)...shows just how down the Pats are on him...kid looks like he just be very good but has been trending in a bad direction for awhile and I get the feeling he was not fitting into the culture Vrabel is establishing...will be interesting to see if a change of scenery ends up being good for him.

 

[Boston]

I believe this what the Pats now have for 2026 draft picks:

1
2
3
4
4
5
6
6
6
7

 

[Bri]

Jonathan Ward is just a guy at RB
Bit odd he's still kicking around

 

[Boston]

Duggar to the Steelers...in following league rules it is Duggar and a #7 for a #6...no surprise at all with this move, Duggar has been the odd man out since Vrabel got here...anyone know how the $ works with him being dealt?

 

[kyoun1e]

Duggar to the Steelers...in following league rules it is Duggar and a #7 for a #6...no surprise at all with this move, Duggar has been the odd man out since Vrabel got here...anyone know how the $ works with him being dealt?

They are certainly being active...

 

[Boston]

Would not be surprised for the Pats to deal for a safety now...after Woodson and Hawkins they only have Pettus and Schooler who is more about special teams...with an extra #4 and 4 #6's they have some extra picks to make a move or two.

 

[kyoun1e]

Would not be surprised for the Pats to deal for a safety now...after Woodson and Hawkins they only have Pettus and Schooler who is more about special teams...with an extra #4 and 4 #6's they have some extra picks to make a move or two.

They are in a great position to start thinking about the future.

At 6-2, the fanbase is overjoyed. It's all gravy from here.

Hope they keep dealing.

 

[Boston]

Here is what I found about the $...that is the best part of this deal.

Dugger entered this season with a $15.27 million cap hit. That number was set to grow to $17 million in 2026 and $18 million in 2027. According to overthecap.com, the Patriots will save over $12 million next season and over $13 million in 2027 by trading Dugger.

Patriots trade former second rounder, starting safety to Pittsburgh

The Kyle Dugger era is over. Multiple sources told MassLive the Patriots are trading the former starter to Pittsburgh

www.masslive.com

 

[Boston]

Would not be surprised for the Pats to deal for a safety now...after Woodson and Hawkins they only have Pettus and Schooler who is more about special teams...with an extra #4 and 4 #6's they have some extra picks to make a move or two.

They are in a great position to start thinking about the future.

At 6-2, the fanbase is overjoyed. It's all gravy from here.

Hope they keep dealing.

Gotta believe they do...not sure it will be a "wow" move but I do expect them to add some quality depth.