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3 Issues Concerning the 2022 New England Patriots

Heading into the 2022 season, I have 3 issues regarding the 2022 New England Patriots. The first is filling the departure of cornerback JC Jackson. Second, is the lack of experience in the linebacking group. Third, is the coaching staff. Will Matt Patricia eventually take over the reins of Offensive, Coordinator? One more concern I have is the development of Mac Jones. In this post, we will review three areas of concern for this year’s Patriots.

Inexperienced Linebacking Group

Outside of Matthew Judon and JaJuan Bentley, the Patriot’s linebacking group is relatively inexperienced. Third-Year man Josh Uche’s snaps have diminished since his rookie season. Second-year man Cameron Magrone has yet to play a down in the NFL. Dolphin castoff Raekwon McMillon is coming off ACL surgery. And Oklahoma product Ronnie Perkins is untested. Despite the question marks, the team needs to stop the run. Anything less is unacceptable.

This year, the Patriots are focusing on speed. Gone are the days of the so-called thumpers such as Jamie Collins and Kyle Van Noy. The key, this year is Matt Judon playing at full strength. In the first half, he was all over the field. But in the second half, his performance slipped a little as did the team.

Can The Coaching Staff Succeed ?

Losing offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels was a significant story in 2021. The long- time assistant accepted a head coaching position with Las Vegas. The organization rehired Matt Patricia and Joe Judge.

As it stands now, Bill Belichick will assume the playcalling duties both offensively and defensively. An idea that I happen to like with a young talented quarterback in Mack Jones.

If the team can stay fairly healthy, I feel it will be a successful season. The Patriots need to play a full four quarters of football in order to have any chance of winning games.

Replacing JC Jackson

The biggest test will be finding a capable replacement for JC Jackson. On draft day Belichick selected two corners in Marcus Jones/Houston and jack Jones/Arizona State. Both had successful college careers. Marcus Jones can return kicks and is known for his strong coverage play. Jack Jones had some off-field issues but has great instincts.

Free agent signings Jabril Peppers and Malcolm Butler will compete for the starting role. Butler hasn’t played in over a year. Replacing Jackson will be the coaching staff’s biggest challenge.

Conclusion

2022 will be one of Bill Belichicks most important. How far will Mack Jones carry them? Can the new-look defense stop the run? Last year the Patriots were third in points allowed with 17.5. Tied for third in takeaways with 30 and tied for eighth in stopping third down conversions. Overall their defense ranked in the NFL’s top ten.

My biggest concern is keeping Mac Jones healthy. Number one pick Cole Strange is expected to start at left guard in 2022. Another issue is finding a capable replacement for Shaq Mason. Mason was dealt to Tampa Bay for a draft pick. I predict the team to go 11=6 in 2022 one game better than 2021.

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Evaluating 3 Area Of Strength For The 2022 Patriots

With, Pre _season a month away, it’s time to evaluate 3 areas of strength for the 2022 Patriots. The team returned to the playoffs in 2021. However,2022 brings new challenges. The organization lost one of the league’s top corners to free agency. In this post, we will review three areas of strength for this year’s New England patriots.

Strong Secondary

Even with the loss of JC Jackson to the Rams, the Patriots still have a respectable secondary. Last season the tandem of Devin McCourty and Andrian Phillips stopped 37 passes for 345 yards against opposing quarterbacks .and had a rating of 71.1 This year the team resigned Malcolm Butler and Jabril Peppers. Plus signed free agent Terrence Mitchell. Safety Devin McCourty ranks 10th in the NFL.

On draft day Bill Belichick added Corberbck Jack Jones from Arizona State and Marcus Jones of Houston. Overall, the secondary ranked 20th in the NFL in 2021.

Coaching

When it comes to coaching, the Patriots have one of the best in NFL history. Overall, Belichick has a 321-156 record for a 673 winning percentage. Only Don Shula has more wins than Belichick with 328 wins. At, 69 years old, he still has a competitive team with a young quarterback on the rise.

In the offseason, the Patriots rehired ex_ Giants coach Joe Judge and still have Matt Patricia. Defensively, the club has promising, Jarod Mayo and Steve Belichick calling the plays. The Patriots did lose long_ time offensive coordinator Josh Mcdaniels to Denver.

Offensive Line

Considering the organization traded Shaq mason, the Patriots still have the best line in the division. The Patriots traded the 21st pick to Kansas City for their 28th pick. With the 28th pick, New England selected Tennessee Chatanoongga guard Cole Strange. Also selected was Chasen Hines of LSU. Third _year tackle Michael Onwenu is the highest graded player by Pro Football Focus. The sad part is that Onwenu was replaced by Trent Brown halfway through the season.

With a younger line, I look for the team to be run_ heavy and much quicker.

Conclusion

With, Mac Jones heading into his sophomore season, fans have reason to be excited. However, there are a lot of questions to be asked. Does Tyquan Thornton have NL potential? Will Trent Brown stay healthy? Can the coaching staff take Mac jones to the next level? These and other questions will take time. My final prediction for the 2022 season 11-6 and one playoff win.

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Three Undrafted 2022 Patriots Free Agents To Watch

It’s time to look at three undrafted free agents to watch. Head coach Bill Belichick is u predictable and is a great roster manipulator. With, mini _camp a month away, it’s time to check out the undrafted players. In this post, we will review three payers undrafted that will battle for a roster spot.

Jake Julien/Punter/Eastern Michigan

Jake Julien is a player to watch. In, 2021, Patriots punter Jake Bailey had three punts blocked. Julien will give Bailey a run for his money. In fifty_four games, at Eastern Michigan, Julien made fifty_one punts. Seventy _one was inside the twenty_yard line.

With Bill Belichick always looking to upgrade, Bailey’s days are in jeopardy. Julien, a Canadien born in Ontario, was drafted in the fourth round of the 2020 Canadien Football League draft.

LaBryan Ray/DL/ Alabama

Injuries prevented LaBryan Ray from being drafted. In four_years with the Crimson Ray missed every season. Ray played in forty_four games, making thirty_seven solo tackles, and thirty-nine assisted tackles, His best season was in 2018, starting in fifteen games.

Ray has the size and frame that NFL coaches love. He specializes in the run and is a decent two _gap player. He fights off double _team coverage consistently. With time, he can contribute to the rotation. Staying healthy will factor in his success.

DeMarcus Mitchell/ Edge/ Purdue

The 6’3″ 265 pounder has great size and athleticism. Playing only in nine games his senior year, he made twenty_ five tackles. In his ultimate game against Tennessee, he recorded four solo tackles. Although he was not present at the combine, he had an exceptional workout in front of scouts at the Purdue Pro day. I look for Mitchell to start off on special teams, working his way into the rotation.

Conclusion

Focusing on offense, it will be interesting to see how the defense plays in 2022. Last season, they were one of the best in the AFC. With a lighter linebacking group, the team is emphasizing speed. As Mac Jones continues to develop, there is always a player undrafted player who makes a statement.

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Patriots End The 2021 Season On a Downer

The Patriots ended the 2021 season on a downer. Instead of clinching a division title, they finished in second place at 10-7. Although respectable to most fans, a lot of Patriots nation were left disappointed. Most people thought they had the talent to win the AFC East. Instead, the season ended in disappointment. A frustrating loss to the Dolphins set reality in. In this post, we will review three areas that they need to focus on the road back to the Super Bowl.

Get More Receivers Involved

Quarterback Mac Jones needs more help. Outside of the run game, he has only three weapons. Receiver Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne, and tight end Hunter Henry. Off_ season acquisitions, Nelson Agholor and Jonnu Smith have been non-existent. Offensive coordinator Josh Mcdaniels needs to find a successful formula for these two receivers.

If Mac Jones is going to be successful, then he needs everyone healthy and involved. The team needs big contributions from the run game.

Improve The Play Of Special Teams

One area that has been disappointing is the Special Teams department. Too many penalties has been a problem all year. Overall, the team ranked fourth in the NFL in special teams’ play.

Kicker Nick Folk is one of the best in the game. The team continues to get solid production from Gunner Olszewski in the return game. Punter Jake Bailey has been disappointing. If the Patriots expect to beat Buffalo, they need consistent play from special teams.

Mix It Up

In order to beat the Bills, the Patriots will have to mix it up. With the weather expected to be around zero, throwing the ball may be unrealistic. Getting Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith involved is crucial. A run game may not be enough.

Conclusion

Mac Jones needs a big gameMac Jones needs a big game. He needs a victory. The naysayers are already out. Fans will continue to question the drafting of Jones. Look for a Patriots victory.

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Patriots Receive Some Coal In Their Stockings

The Patriots received some coal In their stocks Sunday. The team suffered its second consecutive loss at the hands of the Buffalo Bills. Two weeks ago, the Patriots defeated Buffalo. With that loss, they fall to 9-6. Overall, the club failed in all three facets of the game. In this post, we will review three ways the team needs to improve going forward.

Stronger Defensive Stands

The Patriots kept the score close. They just could not capitalize on missed opportunities. Cornerback JC Jackson whiffed on an interception. reserve corner, Myles Bryant played a horrible game. Bills, receiver Isaiah had a career game catching eleven passes. The most he’s ever caught is seven.

Backs Devin Singletary and Zach Moss ran straight through the defensive line. Wideout Stephon Diggs had a huge day ripping apart the secondary. But the real story belonged to quarterback Josh Allen. Allen came to Foxborough with his bag of tricks. For the most part, the Patriots could not stop him.

Eliminate Foolish Penalties

Costly penalties hurt New England Sunday. Christian Barmore got charged with encroachment. David Andrews was flagged for unsportsmanlike. Calls like this helped Buffalo Sunday the Patriots committed eight penalties.

As we have seen in recent years, the Patriots continue to make adjustments. The playoffs are three weeks away. Things need to change.

Receivers Need To get Open

Mac Jones had a long afternoon. His total numbers were 14/32 145 yards passing. Clearly his worst day of the season. Compared to the Saints loss, a 55 % passer rating vs 34 % Sunday against Buffalo. Jones needs receivers open.

Against the Bills, Nelson Agholor was out. That left N Keal Harry, Gunner Olszewski, and Kendrick Bourne. Tight Ends Hunter Renfroe and Jonnu Smith were non _existent. Basically, he had no one to throw to..

Any chance of winning in post _season Jones needs receivers to be open.

Conclusion

Sunday, was the worst played game of the season. Everything from coaching to the defense needs to get better. Blaming Mac Jones is easy. trying, to get him receivers that can get open is another story.

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Patriots Gearing Up For Another Championship Run

The 9-4 Patriots are gearing up for another Championship run. New England shares the top seed with Kansas City. They have won seven straight and face the Colts in week fourteen. Rookie quarterback Mac Jones has exceeded expectations. Defensively, the club is one of the best in the NFL In this post, we will review three reasons why the Patriots will win the AFC.

Defense Is Tops In The AFC

Overall, the team’s defense is one of the best in the NFL. The organization is getting stellar performance from Kyle Duggar, Adrian Phillips, Mathew Judon, and Kyle Van Noy. The unit is built for a Super Bowl, They are making big plays in the right situations.

With a signature win over Buffalo, the only team in their way is the Chiefs. With Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels pulling the strings, I see The Patriots getting to the Super Bowl. Another big test comes Sunday against Indianapolis. The defense has to stop Johnathan Taylor.

Mac Jones Continues to Develop

After, thirteen games, Mac Jones continues to get better. Jones is focusing on the little things. His total passing yards rank third. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has worked patiently, and it shows.

Not focusing on the long passes, Jones is doing the simple things. His favorite target is Kendrick Bourne. Receiver Jakobi Meyers is one of the game’s best. He continues to make clutch plays in key moments. Meyers is one of his most trusted receivers.

A Powerful Run Game

The run game has been one of the game’s best. rookie Rhamondre Stevenson is a candidate for Rookie of the Year. Using his strength, he continues to bowl over opponents. A fourth _round pick from Oklahoma Stevenson has been one of the best backs in the AFC. Stevenson has three touchdowns and four_hundred yards.

As the team continues to run, opposing defenses are in for a long day. Key contributors have been Brandon Bolden, Damien Harris, and JJ Tylor. The injury to James White opened the door for Stevenson and Taylor.

A Solid Kicking Game

One of the most consistent players has been kicker Nick Folk. Folk is one of the best kickers in the NFL. He has made 33 field goals out of 36 attempts. As for special team’s the club continues to get big plays from Matthew Slater.

Conclusion

The Patriots have been the league’s biggest surprise. After, a free agent frenzy, Bill Belichick is in line for coach of the year.

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Questions Facing 2021 Patriots Roster

With the 2021 NFL season a week away, fans are questioning the 2021 Patriots Roster. The head coach spent over $160.000,000 The most in franchise history. They drafted a quarterback with the 15the pick in the NFL Draft. New faces will be on the field and time will tell how this team responds. In this post, we will evaluate three areas that the team needs to focus on.

Quarterback Experience/Depth

Last week the organization released Cam Newton. Newton, the controversial starter, suddenly got released. Rumors of vaccination issues quickly spread. Realistically, Cam Newton was beat out by rookie Mac Jones.

The future is now with Mac Jones leading the way. The biggest question can move the Patriot’s offense. And the next question is can he stay healthy. With a deep offensive line and backfield, Jones should be OK. The growing pains will show. Patience from the fans and coaches will be vital.

With new receivers and two new tight ends, Jones should be successful. If the receivers can hold on to the ball and get open, Jones is the perfect quarterback to lead them. One area that needs improvement is receivers holding onto the ball. Last season, the team was one of the worst for dropping passes.

No Stephon Gilmore

With, pre _season over, Stephon Gilmore has yet to be on the field. Gilmore was assigned to the PUP list. Contract talks continue to stall and the Patriots backfield is not as strong as it once was.

The team added cornerback Shaun Wade from Baltimore. Wade, an Ohio State product, was considered a high draft pick, but an injury deterred his stock.

Special Teams Concerns

The Patriots signed undrafted kicker Quinn Nordin out of Michigan. With, Nordin’s signing, Nick Folk is on the practice squad. The issue is Nordin has no NFL experience. Last year’s kicker Nick Folk was effective but was beat out by Nordin. Nordin impressed the Patriots coaches this summer.

Conclusion

With, the offseason roster revamped fans are curious about the upcoming season. All eyes are on Mac Jones. Cam Newton’s work ethic was debatable. Last season Newton did not execute one hurry_up exercise. The Hurry_up is a vital play for any NFL team. Overall, I look for the Patriots to go 10-7 for the 2021 NFL season.

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Patriots And Stephon Gilmore Need To Come To Terms

The Patriots and Stephon Gilmore need to come to terms. With the NFL pre _season around the corner, time is running out. Currently, he is in the final year of a four-year deal. In this post, we will review three issues why Stephon Gilmore should be extended.

Creates Opportunity

Patriots fans know the importance of getting Stephon Gilmore re-signed. Gilmore is on the last year of a four_year deal. Injuries hindered him in 2020. In eleven games Gilmore had one interception.

Overall, the four_year Patriot has started in fifty_six games and has eleven interceptions. Getting Gilmore extended makes the Patriots that much better. With, all the new additions, resigning him is a priority.

Gilmore would provide depth in the defensive backfield. The team lost corner Jason McCourty in free agency. The Patriots have Devin McCourty, Johnathan Jones, Jalen Mills, Myles Turner, Kyle Duggar, Adrian Phillips, JoeJuan Williams under contract. With him signed, their defense would be a Super Bowl defense.

The Incentive Option

One resolution for the team to go in is the incentive option. this means that the organization would tack on money and lengthen his contract. Such was the case with former players Rob Gronkowski, Tom Brady, and Richard Seymour.

Given his age of thirty and a season_ ending injury in 2020, it comes down to his expectations. One scenario was Deion Branch. Branch held out for more money, which came down to him being traded to Seattle. One thing is for certain, they are better with him than without him.

Compared To Other Corners

In 2019, Stephon Gilmore was the best in football. However, Pro Football Focus Gilmore does not rank in the top 10. Compared to Jalen Ramsey of the Rams, Jaire Alexander of Green Bay, Travon Mullen of Las Vegas. Patriot corner JC Jackson does rank in the top 10. Given Gilmores age, he takes more snaps than Jackson and covers the opposition’s number one receiver. Jackson is younger and used in situational plays.

Conclusion

Having Stephon Gilmore resigned would make life a lot easier for Patriots fans, The team has fifteen million dollars left in cap space for the 2021 season. a healthy Stephon Gilmore is intimidating for NFL quarterbacks. I think in the end both sides will come to terms.

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Patriots Fail To Draft A Number One Receiver

For quite some time, the Patriots have neglected to draft a number one receiver. Instead, they added Damiere Byrd, Marqise Lee, Josh Gordon, and others. Still, no legitimate number one receiver. In 2021 they signed Nelson Agholar Kendrick Bourne, Jacobi Meyers, and Gunner Olszewski, and N’Keal Harry Certainly not a group for opposing defensive coordinators to worry about. In this post, we will review three reasons why this will concern Patriots fans.

No Game_ Changing Receiver

Every contending team has a game_changing receiver. The only deep threat on the roster is Nelson Agholor and Jacobi Meyers. N’keal Harry is a deep threat but has trouble getting open.

Newly acquired Kendrick Bourne is OK but no Julian Edelman. Now that Edelman is retired, finding a suitable replacement will be difficult. With Cam Newton calling the signals fans can expect a lot of passes to the slot receiver.

Tight End Depth

The organization added Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry in the off_season. Paired with Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene Bill Belichick has some flexibility at tight end. Covid 19 opt_out Matt LaCosse will also be returning.

Since Rob Gronkowski retired the tight end position has been vacant. Signing two new tight ends will finally solidify the position. In 2020, the Patriot’s tight ends were targeted a grand total of 32 times.

Julio Jones Rumors

Recently there have been rumors of a possible trade for Julio Jones. A deal like this makes sense for both Atlanta and New England. The cash_ strapped Falcons would clear cap space by moving him. As for New England, trading for Julio Jones would put them over the top.

The current group is by far mediocre at best. A trade like this would make the Patriots a threat in the AFC East again.

Conclusion

With the 2021 schedule being released the Patriots are mostly at home during the first two months. Only two away games Houston and Los Angeles Chargers are scheduled. In order to regain supremacy in the AFC East, they need a hot start. Anything less will be unacceptable for Patriots fans.

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3 Week One Starters From The 2021 Patriots Draft Class

With Patriots mini_camp approaching, it’s time to predict 3 potential weeks one starter from the 2021 Patriot’s draft class. The off_ season was active, to say the least. With several new faces, 2021 will be exciting. A young new quarterback gives fans hope again In this post, we will evaluate three draft selections who could potentially be starters this season.

Christian Barmore/Productive DT/ Alabama

Head coach Bill Belichick traded two fourth_round draft picks for Barmore. The four_year starter at Alabama started 22 games as a two_year starter at Alabama. His physical structure is what defensive coordinators love.

As a starter,Barmore was credited with 34 solo tackles,10 sacks, and recovered 5 fumbles. The Patriot’s style of play is the perfect fit for Barmore. The only drawback is his maturity level. Playing under the rigid Belichick style only time will tell.

Tre Nixon/Vertical Receiver/ Central Florida

This pick can go either way. The Patriots selected Nixon with the 242nd pick in this year’s draft Central Florida. The speedy receiver is a burner who can stretch the field. I project Nixon as the surprise of training camp. Like N’keal Harry, he has trouble separating himself from cover players.

Nixon transferred after two_years at Ole Miss. His pass _catching skills are inconsistent. A seventh_round draft choice, Belichick may decide to red_shirt him. It will be interesting to see how he competes against the Patriot’s receiving department.

Rhamondre Stevenson/FB/ Oklahoma

This is the most interesting pick out of this year’s draft class. Stevenson is a 6′ 1″ 231lb_ pound fullback. Known for his superior blocking skills, he is also an excellent receiver out of the backfield. Being an excellent blocker will be a welcomed addition for quarterback Cam Newton.

With the Patriots stressing the run I feel Stevenson will be a significant contributor this season. In two_years at Oklahoma, he started 19 games for 298 total yards and 13 touchdowns. He averaged 7 yards per carry. He will be a weapon in the red zone.

Conclusion

The year 2020 was disappointing for Patriots fans. With a seventeen_game schedule, I look for the club to go 11-6. Quarterback Cam Newton has a year in the Patriot’s system under his belt. Number One Draft Pick Mac Jones is waiting in the wings. Look for the club to be better in 2021.