Patriots have their own cheat code for a primetime matchup they cannot lose

The Patriots face a tougher 2026 schedule with many playoff-caliber opponents. Their success last season increases the difficulty of upcoming matchups. Cornerback Marcus Jones says the Patriots have an unexpected advantage in certain games due to safety Kevin Byard III. Byard has recent experience playing for both teams, including time with the Bears under head coach Ben Johnson. That familiarity is expected to provide fresh, accurate information for game planning. The Patriots’ Week 7 matchup in Chicago is highlighted as a key primetime challenge. The Bears are projected to contend, with Caleb Williams entering Year 3 and Johnson building on prior progress. Byard’s knowledge is positioned as a potential edge for the Patriots.

"Because of that, they'll be hoping to have any sort of edge over their tougher opponents, with a few teams in the NFC that stand out most. That doesn't mean their competition in the AFC is any easier, but recent comments from cornerback Marcus Jones make it clear that the Patriots have an unexpected advantage going into a few of those matchups, particularly the Bears, who are expected to be at the top of their division this fall."

"And how might they have that edge? According to Jones, the addition of seasoned safety Kevin Byard III provides a lot of intel on those opponents, given his recent history playing for both teams. Kevin Byard's veteran football knowledge will be even more valuable to the Patriots this season than we thought With so many big-time games on this year's schedule, including a Thursday Night showdown in Chicago in Week 7, the Patriots are going to need all the help they can get to defeat some of their toughest opponents."

"The Bears are near the top of the list, with Caleb Williams entering Year 3, just like Drake Maye, and an impressive second-year head coach, Ben Johnson, looking to build on last year and go even further. It's presumably the primary reason the NFL decided to feature their matchup in primetime, and fortunately for the Patriots, they can pick Byard's brain about what to expect from the Bears ahead of time."

"Because he spent two years with the team, including one year under Johnson, Byard's intel is fresh and will be more accurate than it would have been if he had played there years ago. He can provide some insight while game planning, and maybe even give them the edge they need to leave Soldier Field with a"

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