The New England Patriots are beginning a new chapter with first-year head coach Jerod Mayo.
A former Patriots linebacker who learned under Bill Belichick, Mayo comes highly recommended, though his first year as head coach is still a bit of an unknown.
One certainty is that things will look different compared to the Belichick era, but this change might be beneficial. Mayo has received strong endorsements from notable figures in New England, including former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski. Gronk praised Mayo on Julian Edelman’s podcast, likening him to Tom Brady on the defensive side for his ability to organize and read plays effectively.
Mayo’s success will partly depend on the new players he has brought to the team this offseason. A key player to watch is whether Drake Maye will become the starting quarterback and when that might happen. It’s likely that Jacoby Brissett will start in Week 1, with Maye taking over only when necessary or when he’s fully prepared.
No matter who starts at quarterback, the Patriots will need strong receiving options to succeed. Ja’Lynn Polk, drafted early in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, has a chance to make a significant impact. Polk, who was a standout at the University of Washington, has the potential to become the team’s top receiver given the lack of a clear WR1 on the roster.
With few long-term receivers on the roster, Polk has a good opportunity to secure a key role. Veterans like Kendrick Bourne, K.J. Osborn, and JuJu Smith-Schuster have established roles but aren’t part of the team’s long-term plans. DeMario Douglas is the only other receiver with a strong future connection to the team, while rookie Javon Baker will also compete for a role.
Ultimately, a successful 2024 season for the Patriots might not mean winning the Super Bowl but rather demonstrating a new team identity and seeing progress from players like Drake Maye. The new-look Patriots will be exciting to watch this fall.
