Updated predictions for AFC East standings entering 2023 season
By Brandon Ray
3.) New England Patriots
The Patriots made an immediate upgrade at offensive coordinator when they hired Bill O’Brien back to help and turn around quarterback Mac Jones, who regressed from last season. Jones is not all to blame for how his performance was because it is hard to say that a quarterback who has a defensive-minded coach calling the offense is set up for failure.
This offseason, the Patriots were able to sign wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster, re-sign DeVante Parker, sign tight end Mike Gesicki to pair with Hunter Henry, and made a late addition free agent signing in Ezekiel Elliott to pair with Rhamondre Stevenson.
As long as Bill Belichick is at the helm, the defense will always be a threat to opposing offenses’ and with O’Brien taking over the offense, this unit should be much better than last season. While the Patriots do not have the firepower like the Jets, the Patriots have never finished below the Jets in the standings since 2002 (where there was a three-way tie for first at 9-7).