Could the New England Patriots go from a four-win team to a playoff candidate in just one year? Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano certainly seems to think so.
The hiring of Mike Vrabel was a pivotal move that changed the tone surrounding the Patriots, with many expecting Drake Maye to make a significant leap in his second year.
“Maye went from making the most of a bad situation as a rookie to having a strong supporting cast for Year 2,” Manzano wrote. “The Patriots still have to deal with the mighty (Buffalo) Bills in the AFC East, but this could be a sleeper playoff team if the many additions pay off in 2025.