By Luke Curran

Staff Writer, ’27

The first four weeks of the 2024-2025 NFL season have startled many fans, from contract negotiation standoffs to exhilarating games dragging into overtime. Throughout it all, the New England Patriots have looked to establish themselves above the bottom teams in the league. Under the brand-new leadership of head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots have entered the season with a completely revamped offense and an even stronger defense.

The team has worked through the off-season to recruit new players, such as securing Drake Maye, the third pick in the NFL draft and the “Quarterback of the future.” With other key additions and better strategic improvements, the Patriots are trying to deliver a promising opening season for fans. The Patriots aim to make a strong statement for the future, with a bright young team ready to perform at the highest level possible.

With a road win against Cincinnati, the Patriots earned their first opening weekend victory since beating Miami at home in 2020. The win was the fourth over Cincinnati in Patriots’ history and shut down criticism from opposing fans.

However, the optimism for the season took a hit in the next three games, with the team falling to 1-3. Although the Patriots have been lackluster in their most recent games, players remain motivated to improve and grow. “I am the biggest team player, if you ever see me on the sideline in a game, I’m the biggest team player,” said star wide receiver Demario Douglas in a Patriots.com interview after the team’s close loss to the Seattle Seahawks in week 2. “Just go out there and play. Whatever coach asks me to do, I’m going to do.”

Ultimately, the New England Patriots have chosen to undertake a slow rebuild during the 2024 season, under the command of Mayo and starting veteran quarterback Jacoby Brisset. While there have been flashes of potential, inconsistency has plagued the overall performance of this new and inexperienced team. The future is bright, but the promise of this season may be dim.