The New England Patriots are currently fully focused on the 2024 season, finalizing their coaching staff and determining front office roles in preparation for the start of free agency on March 13. There will be a lot of turnover on a roster that went 4-13 last season. That said, there were some positives from last year as the Patriots prepare for a new season in 2024. 2024 will be a landmark year for these three patriotsChristian GonzalezChristian Gonzalez was a rookie with the Patriots and was heading into his rookie season last year.
In just four games, the first-year corner has recorded an interception, a sack and three passes defensed. Some even say that Cristian González was on course to win the Defender of the Year award before he suffered a hamstring injury.Gonzalez emerged as a speedster and quickly showed that he has all the physical tools to have a great career in this league. In just his second NFL game, he faced the Miami Dolphins’ electric duo of Tyreek Hill and Jalen Waddle and managed to last the entire game.
On the day, the receiver pair had just nine catches on 15 targets for 126 yards. 30 of those yards came via a screen to Waddle with Gonzalez on the other side of the field. In this game and limited time on the field, he showed not only his physical tools, but also how high his football IQ is. He’s a perfect fit in Bill Belichick’s complex defense, one that even veteran cornerbacks have struggled with before starting. With Tyreek Hill, Stefon Diggs, Garrett Wilson and Jalen Waddle in the AFC East, the Patriots will face top wide receivers in at least six games.
Once Gonzalez returns to full health, it will be easier to take out the opposing team’s primary weapon. Steve Smith Sr. recognized the turn. He will be looking to return to better form to start this season to improve his skills. If he wants to give his best, he will be challenged frequently and given many opportunities to play for the team. Christian BarmoreYou Christian Barmore is in his first year this season and ranks seventh among defensive tackles in sacks (8.5). Despite the rushing stats, where he made the biggest strides this season was in run defense.
Barmore ranks second in tackles (39) and tied for third in tackles (13). That kind of offensive versatility makes him a great all-around player on a very good New England defense. Barmore’s speed is impressive for a player of his size. The ability to explode off the line, beat double teams with speed and still outrun defenders is a rare skill among defensive tackles. After honing his impressive skills during the offseason, the Patriots defensive tackle is ready to hit the ground running next season. With his former coach as his new defensive coordinator, Barmore is expected to make an even bigger impact at the center of the Patriots’ defensive scheme in 2024.
DeMario “Pop” DouglasDeMario “Pop” Douglas burst onto the scene in New England this offseason, shattering expectations for the sixth-round pick. In his rookie campaign, the passer set the record for most receptions by a rookie in the Belichick era with 44. It wasn’t just a number. Douglas’ talent for creating quick, accurate routes and separation has received a lot of attention throughout the season. Going forward, the question isn’t whether Douglas will contribute in 2024, but whether the Patriots can get their hands on a future star.
Douglas is ready to take his game to the next level, especially with Alex Van Pelt leading the charge. As CLNS’ Taylor Kyles points out in the tweet below, Douglas seems like the perfect scheme fit for Van Pelt’s offense. The passing game could see a major boost with a new report suggesting the team wants to move on from Mac Jones. Having the third overall pick in the draft gives the Patriots the opportunity to have a dynamic player under center, which will only improve the receiver’s play.
The Patriots are ready for the futureIt’s easy to get emotional when a season ends (especially if it’s as disappointing as last year), but the Patriots are committed to rebuilding this season. The ability to land a franchise quarterback on a rookie contract, the third-highest cap space in the league and these three potential stars returning for the 2024 season is a recipe for success. It won’t be easy. This roster needs a lot of work and has some key players eager to become free agents. All eyes are on Jerod Mayo and the front office as they begin to shape the future of the franchise.
