NEWSLETTER
Patriots training camp is right around the corner. But first, we’ll take stock of New England’s offseason and look ahead to the storylines to watch for in training camp. Plus, I have some bold predictions, and I took a crack at what the Patriots’ depth chart will look like when they open the season against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 10.
New England Patriots Offseason Recap
Who’s In?
Who’s Out?
Meet the Rookies
2023 Outlook & Patriots Training Camp Storylines
In 2022, the Patriots endured a poorly executed offensive plan under Joe Judge and Matt Patricia. However, they have now managed to bring quarterback Mac Jones back together with his former offensive coordinator from Alabama, Bill O’Brien. This hiring could potentially be one of the most significant non-head coach hires of the year.
If the team rotates their receivers and utilizes new addition Mike Gesicki properly, the offensive unit can perform well. The ground game is expected to be strong due to the powerful linemen who excel at run blocking. However, the team may face challenges with pass protection as the two tackles are not up to par. Quarterback Mac Jones may struggle due to this issue, which could negatively impact the team throughout the season.
Patriots Training Camp Storylines
Offensive Identity — Let’s take a trip down memory lane to June 2022 when the Patriots hosted their minicamp. At the time, they were in the process of implementing a new offense. The long-time coordinator, Josh McDaniels, and several assistant coaches had left. Matt Patricia and Joe Judge were leading the charge to streamline the existing playbook, which was quite voluminous.
Fast forward to 2023, and things have changed. Patricia and Judge are no longer with the team, although Judge holds a different position. Bill O’Brien has taken over as the team’s new offensive coordinator, and he brings with him a wealth of experience in leading successful offenses at both the NFL and college level. He will use this experience to create a new attack strategy for New England. We can’t say for sure what it will look like yet, but the upcoming minicamp will provide the most extensive preview yet of his plans to take on defenses in the upcoming season.
Rookies Involvement — During the three OTAs open to the media, the rookie were the show. Particularly, cornerback Christian Gonzalez, defensive lineman Keion White, and linebacker/safety hybrid Marte Mapu stood out. Based on their performance, it seems likely that all three will play prominent roles on the team this season.
However, these three players are not the only rookies on the roster. The Patriots currently have 16 first-year players under contract. While not all of them are expected to make an impact on the 2023 Patriots team, some may serve as developmental depth options or even become outright starters. Much of New England’s offseason roster addition came via the draft and undrafted rookie signings, so, they’ll have to add to a largely unchanged roster otherwise.
Wins Over/Under (7.5)
I have New England penciled in for a 7-10 season, so, we’re taking the under here today. Eight wins isn’t impossible for the Patriots, but it’ll be very difficult.
Prediction: Under
Note: 2023 NFL Win Totals via Caesar’s Sportsbook
New England Patriots Projected Starting Lineup
JUMP TO A TEAM
AZÂ |Â ATLÂ | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN | CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND | JAX | KC | LVR | LAC | LAR | MIA | MIN |
