"Although the new regime was credited with some solid moves in free agency and the draft, it didn't necessarily prompt much optimism that we'd see a season with a much-improved record this year, but they have accomplished just that. So much so, Drake Maye is in the MVP conversation through the first nine weeks, and the Patriots are the No. 2 seed in the AFC playoff race."
"While making five bold predictions across the NFL for the second half of the 2025 season, Sullivan has the Patriots ending the year not only in the playoffs, but ultimately winning the top spot in the AFC playoffs, something they haven't seen since Brady was under center. Throughout the dynasty years, they were often the top dog in the conference and were fortunate to have a first-round bye,"
After two decades of dominance, the New England Patriots fell into obscurity following Tom Brady's 2020 departure, posting bottom-tier performances and undergoing multiple coaching and roster changes. Mike Vrabel was hired to restore competitiveness and cohesion. Free-agent and draft moves improved the roster, and the team exceeded low external expectations with a much-improved record through nine weeks. Drake Maye entered MVP consideration while the Patriots held the No. 2 AFC seed. With an easier remaining schedule, projections suggest the Patriots could secure the AFC's top playoff seed and regain positioning reminiscent of their dynasty years.
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