Buffalo Bills: 4 reasons they should win the AFC East in 2020
By Jason Mattis
New England Patriots take a step backward
Dating back to the 2003 season, the Patriots have won the division all but once. The team appears to be vulnerable and it starts with the signal-caller. You can’t mention this team without noting that Tom Brady is no longer under center. That alone should give the other three teams belief that someone else can wrestle the division away.
A depleted roster continues with the big hits they took due to players opting-out of the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Defensive leader and middle linebacker Dont’a Hightower headlines the list, as well as safety Patrick Chung and tight end Matt LaCosse, and all three will be missed. Nine-year veteran and very dependable right tackle Marcus Cannon will also voluntarily miss the season.
The depth seems to be lacking this season as well. Behind starters Sony Michel and Julian Edelman there isn’t much at the running back and wide receiver position. The once dangerous tight end position is lacking a threat to scare opposing defenses. On defense, while Bill Belichick’s scheme usually wins there isn’t a big name pass rusher causing sleepless nights for the opposing offensive coordinator.