Mayo Spoke And Spoke A Lot.

Mayo has been making the rounds in the media and there is a lot to decipher. Most of what he had said has been repetitive but there were a few things that he said that stuck out.

First it sounded like Mayo agreed that the Belichick end in New England didn't go as planned but that after the 2023 season, that it was time.

Mayo said he doesn't like yes men. He wants to he challenged by his staff and the front office. However, he doesn't seem to feel the same way about the players. I'll get into that later.

Mayo said titles are important but people have to have a role to be a round. It kinda sounded like he was taking a shot at some of the people that have been around the organization the past few seasons. Imying that people aren't just gonna be in the building to be in the building.

Mayo at the press conference brought up the quote that coaches lose games, the entire quote didn't really seem needed for the question asked. Almost made it seem like he was blaming Bill for some of the losses.

Kraft said he didn't see color and Mayo followed up by saying he was going to diversify the locker room. I thought the team was pretty mixed if we're talking racially, Mayo added to that talking to Mike Reiss, sounding like talent took a backseat to ethnicity, and that the Patriots were trying too hard to diversify.

Mayo said to be successful, he's gotta basically build a good staff. That was a no brainer but he also said he has to listen to the staff. Mayo said he'll take advice but he's gonna do his own thing. Mayo said he's not Bill Belichick but implied he was gonna carry on the work ethic installed by Bill.

Mayo said he doesn't just wanna have leaders but develop players and coaches when asked about coaching philosophy. Mayo implied talking to Reiss that football will be taking a backseat to mental health.

Getting back to the players, Mayo said he doesn't want vocal critics in the locker room. Mayo also said he wants his players to enforce the culture and hold each other accountable in and off the field.

Mayo basically said the clicks & voices of the echo chamber are gone or aren't gonna be tolerated. Giving a warning to players and coaches.

Mayo got asked about the quarterback position and while he said the same thing he said repeatedly, he added "its up to the guys under contract to be leaders." That could mean many things but I think it means that there could be a quarterback competition coming regardless if they bring in a new guy. He spoke with Mike Reiss and came across as if he thinks the quarterbacks on staff are underdeveloped. Mayo told Phil Perry concerning the offense that there's a difference between developing and coaching.

Mayo implied that the Patriots way of everyone saying the company line is gone. This could be taken as players are going to be allowed to be themselves but it also could mean that players are gonna be allowed to address things with the media.

Mayo acknowledged that he is not Bill. There will be some carry over from Belichick but the team may not be run like a corporation any longer and that could be a good thing or a bad thing.  Only time can tell.

A Lot Of Things Circling The Patriots Organization As The 2023 Season Ends

I have been silent since November 11, 2023. I haven't been able to catch a lot of the games this season, so I have not been writing. There are some stories going around that seem worth noting. And I do have a question or two concerning them.

Trent Brown hasn't been too happy with the front office and coaching staff. He's been dealing with injuries and some reports suggest that he may have been mentally checked out early on in the season. Odds are he won't be back in 2024.

The Patriots are in need of some major changes when it comes to their offensive coaching staff. The dysfunction is a cause for concern. There were some issues with the leadership and decision-making within the staff. Josh McDaniels is in New England reportedly and whether it's replacing O'Brien with McDaniels or getting new staff completely, an overhaul is needed. I do agree with those calling to replace Troy Brown but with who?

The dysfunction has had the quarterbacks not communicating. Reportedly the two quarterbacks haven't been helping each other because of the tension in the organization. And is Justin Fields headed to New England? Also like with Bill O'Brien, reviving the question from 2021, was Mac Jones getting drafted when Bill could've moved up for Fields, a Robert Kraft decision after seeing how Cam Newton (a Bill's guy and mobile quarterback) play?

There were a lot of internal factors at play that contributed to Mac Jones being broken mentally. It's important for a team to provide the necessary support and resources to help their players thrive both on and off the field. The organization needs to learn from this experience and make the necessary changes to create a healthier work environment for their players.

Bringing back McDaniels as a quarterback coach while he collects money from the Raiders could possibly fix Mac Jones but the Patriots should still invest in a quarterback because of the damage done.

Someone has gone on the offensive against Mayo. Mayo addressed it saying the person needs to come to him and that he did some self reflecting. The timing suggests someone who either wants the spot or that is trying to protect Belichick. 

Nick Caserio has been thrown around as a potential GM and front office candidate. It's unknown if he would wanna return and it doesn't make sense unless Bill is removed from the GM role. Caserio helped build some of Brady's teams and could be a sign that R.K.K. although moving on from Belichick, wants to relive the 2010s decade.

Belichick reportedly wanted Matt Patricia to continue to work on installing the Shanahan offense but Kraft wanted Bill to bring back Billy O. and to return to the Brady offense. Belichick in return limited O'Brien's power. Who's really against evolving the offense Robert or Bill?

Ownership is considering their options and looking towards Mayo as a potential direction. It's clear that a deep conversation between ownership and Coach Belichick is long overdue. It's important for them to have an open and honest discussion about the team's future and how they can move forward. 

Jonathan Kraft could play a crucial role in the discussion between the Patriots and Coach Belichick. His perspective and opinions might have a significant influence on the final decision.

Don't close the door on the Belichicks in New England just yet. And there is a good chance at least Steve stays on the staff if Bill moves on, in a defensive coordinator capacity.

The chargers appear a defensive head coach away from a Superbowl birth. Trading Belichick to the Chargers is a possibility but would Kraft wanna risk handing the Superbowl to another AFC team, would he be willing to potentially make Belichick sit out to avoid him coaching elsewhere?

Who put out the information that Belichick has suitors? Did the Krafts do it to make Bill wanna leave? Did Bill do it to make the Krafts think he has options, did an NFL source or the media come up with it to create a wedge between ownership and Belichick? Did a possible successor put the word out to try to get Bill out of the way?

We know Kraft got involved with Jimmy G being shipped out. And we know he played a hand with Brady up until Brady left. Why is it not possible that Kraft had his hands in the 2021 Draft and why is it not possible that he meddled this season more than just demanding that Belichick bring back O'Brien? So is Bill truly at full blame for the downfall of the Patriots since Brady left and if Bill leaves, is it because Robert wanted him out of the way or because Bill showed to much decline?

Some will say that "Robert Kraft has never meddled before" but to that I say he also never ordered Bill to hire a coach until 2023. He never released a statement throwing shade at Belichick like the one he did at the end of the 2022 season. Kraft has been doing things that Kraft hasn't been known for. And furthermore he has meddled with the quarterback situation in the past. The dysfunction starts with Robert Kraft and trickles downward.

To what end the blame falls, we do not know for certain but some blame falls on Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots. And the rest falls on Bill Belichick. This isn't about dividing the fan base. This is about looking at things, asking questions and trying to find answers to those questions, so that responsibility gets placed properly. 

Respect The Quarterback Play

What is an average quarterback? For many it's cracking the top 16. That's not an accurate assessment. Because it puts way too many quarterbacks as below average or bad. When looking at the scale, it should look like this.

13 to 20 are average range. Since there are 32 quarterbacks, 16 and 17 are the most averaged ranked quarterbacks in the NFL. This tier should have the most quarterbacks in it. These guys at the very least should be able to manage a game. While the group below them needs a supporting cast, this group is a little more capable.

From 21 to 26 are below average quarterbacks. These guys need a supporting cast and are the but can still manage a game. These are typically the bridge quarterbacks. Although teams would prefer to get their bridge from the a tier higher.

From 27 to 32, these are guys that are bad. Typically they are either in development or should be backups. There maybe the guy who has fallen victim to circumstances here but for the most part, if your quarterback is here, it's most likely time to start shopping for either a quarterback or a lot of supporting offensive talent.

From ranks 7 through 12, these are the above average to good quarterbacks. They are guys a team can win with that should be able to allow a team to win because of. They might not be able to do it every game but there should be about a 50% chance that they could be trusted to carry the team if needed.

From ranks 1 through 6, these are the good to elite quarterbacks. They can carry a team when need be. They elevate those around them. They are the field generals. And the no questions asked franchise quarterbacks. I listed this group last because it's the most talked about. 

We need to stop acting like those ranked 17 and on are all bad quarterbacks. It's unrealistic and it puts too much expectations on the players. Having a clear tier rank for average players allows for more accurate rankings of the good and the bad quarterbacks. People need to stop expecting every quarterback to be Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, or Lamar Jackson.

There Is No Consensus Path For The Patriots Going Forward

There are conflicting opinions on what the Patriots need to do with their coaching and front office staff. Depending on which camp you fall into, you may think this is going to take a couple of years for Bill to fix or you may think it's gonna take a couple of years for someone else to fix.

Bill Polian basically told Tom E. Curran that the Patriots should keep Bill Belichick and let him do his thing. He acknowledged Bill as still being a good coach. And says Bill finally realized that he needs to rebuild the offense. From what Polian is saying, I guess the question is, will the Krafts allow Bill to do the rebuild, if that is what Bill wants to finally do?

Nick Cattles says there is a mutiny in the Patriots locker room. Is Robert Kraft going to let Bill Belichick handle the locker room. Has Belichick lost the Patriots way? Cattles implies that Bill needs Robert Kraft to meddle and hold Belichick accountable, which is something in the first podcast that Bill Polian says would hinder the progress of the team.

Greg Bedard mentions that offensive line coach Klemm is not with the team and asks if it is a legit medical reason or if it is a more serious issue. Bedard again says not to expect a mid season firing of Belichick. Belichick the general manager got criticized again and they imply he needs to be stripped of the position.

Regardless of the opinion one has, there is another with a different opinion. At the moment, the only concensus is that the 2023 Patriots are a bad and dysfunctional team. And the goes from the ownership down. People can day what they thinks going to happen but nobody knows for certain. Even Robert Kraft. He could fire Bill Belichick and say the team is going to return to the post season and the team could have the following decade as bad it was from '65 to '75.

The Media Wants Belichick Out Of New England.

CBS did a podcast where they say Belichick could be fired after a loss in Germany. They call it a mistake on the Patriots if they do so. They also imply that the Patriots requiring a work ethic from their players is arrogant. That I disagree with. 

Vrabel is a former Patriots player but he is not a true Belichick tree coach. McDaniels peaked as an offensive coordinator. And Flores had too much meddling in Miami from the office. It's funny how people have stopped talking about Mayo.

As for Belichick, CBS mentions something I have mentioned several times. Taking the GM hat away from Bill. I would not completely shut Bill out of the picture. He knows defense. He knows how to build and run a defensive staff and unit. 

The problem is when it comes to the offensive side of the ball. I do think Belichick can select an offensive coordinator. And I don't have issue with the offensive system. Bill doesn't run the flashy high turnover risk offense the rest of the league runs but he doesn't know how to evaluate offensive personnel. 

Ivan Fears and Scar were two decent coaches. So far the replacements do not appear to know how to coach up the talent. Then there's Troy Brown. He may or may not have developed Meyers but Douglas was said to of been an early day two talent that was undersized. His play is not due to Brown. 

Bill O'Brien does not appear to be able to be the coordinator and the quarterbacks coach. Brining McDaniels back to coach up the quarterbacks could help. And the rest of the non defensive staff has not gotten it done either. And nobody outside the defense seems to know how to teach fundamentals. 

The Patriots didn't know how to use Dwayne Allen. They didn't know to use Jonnu Smith. They didn't know how to use Nelson Agholor or N'Keal Harry. And they don't seem to know how to use Tyquan Thorton, Boutte, or Ty Montgomery. Montgomery is supposed to be a third down pass catching back. And he hasn't been anything. 

Not only do they not know how to use them but at the moment they don't appear to fit in the system meaning they scouted wrong and signed players they shouldn't have. Nothing new, they brought in guys like Sanu and Smith-Schuster, while letting guys like Berrios and Meyers walk.

I think the Patriots can evaluate quarterbacks but do not know how to get the most out of them. Play calling with Newton and Mac are two examples.

Demote Bill to assistant GM and let him continue to do his magic with the defense but put a new GM in charge of the rest of the team.

One quick thought to keep in mind. Bill in 2022 seemed to wanna switch to a McVeigh & Shanahan system. In 2023 the Robert Kraft made Bill revert to the Brady system. And Bill had players on the roster for the system he wanted, that don't fit his current system. Robert Kraft also appears to like pocket quarterbacks and may of been the one behind drafting Mac Jones. 

Robert Kraft has made his presence known the past few seasons, when he typically stays in the shadows. Kraft has to be given blame for his role in the teams dysfunction and collapse. 

Patriots Issues Heading Towards November.

There are a couple of things going around Patriots Nation. From Mac Jones to Bill Belichick, the Patriots have their issues and people are teeing off on them. For the most part people are just wrong.

Listening to the Patriots Talk Podcast interview with the former GM, unless the Patriots believe they're going to be drafting first or second, they have to draft help for Mac. The team cannot afford to trade up Into the number two spot, not even from the number 3. 

I came Into the 2023 season saying Mac Jones was statistically, the same quarterback he was after the 2021 season. That was based on projected stats for the games he missed and the one he was benched for.

The Patriots need to see if they can figure out how to use Thorton this season and if he can get seperation and draw coverage down field.

Will Rogers looks like the best passer in the 2024 NFL Draft to me. The concern is that he is an Air Raid Quarterback, which Alex Barth brought up in the Patriots Beat Podcast. There have been several Quarterbacks to play at a decent level in the NFL, that came from an Air Raid system. 

Jared Golf took the Rams to the Superbowl. Geno Smith is the starting quarterback for the Seahawks. Nick Foles won a Superbowl. Jimmy Garoppolo lead the 49ers to the superbowl. Patrick Mahomes is a multiple time superbowl champion. The Air Raid has a stigmatizism around it but there have been a fair share of quarterbacks to to play in the NFL from those systems. Evan Lazar in a podcast a little further down praises the Air Raid offense.

I don't think the Patriots need to draft Mac Jones' replacement but they do need to get a quality backup quarterback and Rogers could be a guy that could develop into a starter.

So there's talk about the Patriots moving on from Belichick. Dumbest shit ever. Belichick as the head coach is not the issue. The problem is Belichick the general manager. Now if Bill doesn't want to give up general manager duties, them there's an issue with Belichick but until them, any talk about firing Belichick as the head coach  ends to stop. 

The Patriots need a new offensive coaching staff. Listening to Alex Barth and Evan Lazar, the Patriots not only cannot score in the first half this season but they are not able to run the offensive game plan. And they're committing mental errors. Troy Brown has been a coach that I have said needs to go for a few seasons now. He cannot coach seperation. The special teams coaches need to go also, Lazar talked about how bad they are.

Alex Barth mentioned Josh McDaniels to replace Bill O'Brien as the offensive coordinator. That maybe true but the Raiders are 3-3 and would have to fall apart. The Patriots offense seems to be worse than the 2022 Matt Patricia coached offense. Whether that's due to the roster Bill B. built, the staff Belichick built, or O'Brien's skill level, I don't know.

I wrote a blog yesterday talking about the Patriots problems. They only need two players on defense. They can address that via the draft or free agency. The Patriots need at least 7 offensive players to fix the current roster (Backup quarterback, receiving back, fullback, two different style receivers and two tackles). And that's before the current roster becomes free agent at the end of the season. 

Belichick can evaluate defensive talent as a GM but he needs to lose say over the offensive side of the ball for now. Bill needs a co-gm, whether that's Matt Groh or someone else. Bill Belichick only has a few years left in the tank. Get a co-gm and start prepping for Bill's eventual retirement.

The Patriots Have Basically The Same Needs They Entered The 2023 Offseason With.

Coming into the 2023 offseason, the Patriots needed a few things. Outside corner, Free safety, Nose tackle, Fullback, Receiving back, Slot receiver, Speed X receiver, Backup tight end, Tackle, and both legs. The team acquired Damario Douglas, Mike Gesicki, Gonzalez, and both legs. 

The Patriots signed and drafted a few more players but nobody's worked out. If the team kept this roster to start the 2024 season, it would still need several of those positions plus a backup or developmental starting quarterback.

Defensively, if the Patriots can keep the unit intact, all they need is a run stopping nose guard / tackle and a free safety. It's the easiest unit to fix. And probably the one the staff is most qualified to fix.

On offense, I still have faith in Mac Jones but the quarterback room needs someone that can backup Mac and possibly start. A mid round guy. I like three quarterbacks, Will Rogers from Mississippi State, Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, and Grayson McCall from Coastal Carolina. 

The Patriots need a pass catching slot back. They refused to bring in Calvin Turner Jr from Hawaii. They need a fullback or H-Back but the Patriots don't seem to know how to use the H-Back as a fullback, not since Devlin and Johnson left.

Tyquan Thorton is a deep slot and I will die on that hill. They drafted Boutte and Douglas but they don't have a field stretching speedster at the X and Bourne is an inconsistent Z receiver. Acquiring a guy that can be a speedster at both the X and Z is a necessity. 

The Patriots also need offensive tackles. They drafted a bunch of Linemen in the 2023 draft but they really don't have a quality starting tackle. Trent Brown is not playing good enough in my opinion. 

The Patriots have some pieces they could move before the trade deadline but I would trade for pieces they need. They might not be able to make the playoffs in 2023 but they can get the ship sailing back in the right position.

Trade Uche and Mills for a positions of need. Offensively, Trade Elliot. Bourne and Henry are basically the only viable weapons the Patriots have on offense besides Douglas. And they need that chemistry. Stevenson isn't playing well enough that anybody outside of Vegas would want him. 

The Patriots could fix part of their problems in season. It's all depends on if they want to. I don't know what the mindset is inside one Patriots Place. And I won't pretend to. So all we can do is wait and see.

Twenty Quarterback Prospects To Keep On Your Current Patriots Big Board.

Whether one thinks the Patriots need to replace Mac Jones in 2024 or not, the Patriots need to add at least a backup quarterback to the room. Here are 20 quarterbacks the Patriots should be keeping an eye on in the 2023 NCAA season. With half a season to go, other names may emerge but these guys should currently be at the top of the list.

Will Rogers, Mississippi State, Sr

"Will Rogers is an accurate pocket-passer that thrives on timing. He delivers very catchable passes in the short-to-intermediate regions of the field. Rogers delivers the ball to his receiver with a quick release. There is some mobility to his game—he can extend plays with his legs. Similar to a point guard in basketball, Rogers runs the Mississippi State offense to the play-caller’s design. With impressive ball placement, he leads his receivers and provides opportunities to run after the catch. Extremely calm and poised in the pocket, he is rarely rattled. His game reminds me of New England Patriots QB Mac Jones." - Damien Parson

2023 midway stats: completed 61.4% of 171 passes for 1,275 yards with 10 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. -1.7 yard average on 23 carries. 

Shedeur Sanders, Colorado, Jr

"Sanders sees the game like you would expect from the son of one of the game’s all-time greats. His passing ability is accentuated by sound decision-making, effective accuracy, and a confidence in the pocket. And yet Sanders, after making the jump from Jackson State to Colorado in 2023, feels like he’s still just scratching the surface of what he’s capable of." - Kyle Crabbs

2023 midway stats: completed 72.3% of 303 passes for 2,420 yards with 21 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. -0.3 yard average on 73 carries with 3 touchdowns. 

Grayson McCall, Coastal Carolina, Sr

"Grayson McCall plays and leads with a gritty and tough mentality. He showcases enough zip in the short passing game. His frame and dual-threat ability can expand the offensive playbook. He’s capable of working off the read option, RPO, and power run game. Also, his mobility affords the opportunity to create second-reaction opportunities and off-script plays." - Damien Parson 

2023 midway stats: completed 64.8% of 196 passes for 1,675 yards with 8 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. 0.6 yard average on 45 carries with 1 touchdown.

Rogers and Sanders are currently expected to be day two selections, providing Sanders doesn't return to school. McCall is expected to be a day three pick. All three guys fit the Patriots mold as a passer. While they may not all have elite athleticism that fans look for. Honestly, I'll never get why fans and scouts would rather have JaMarcus Russell clones over players closer to someone like Chad Pennington but that's just me.

Yes, I am aware that I have the concensus number one pick outside of my top three. While he is a good quarterback, he needs to improve as a passer. I would welcome him into New England but he's not my top pick.

The other 17 quarterbacks to watch: 

Brady Cook, Missouri

Kurtis Rourke, Ohio

Jayden Daniels, LSU

Bo Nix, Oregon

Cameron Ward, Was St.

Cam Rising, Utah

Michael Penix Jr, Was

Michael Pratt, Tulane

Caleb Williams, USC

Drake Maye, NC

Spencer Rattler, South Carolina

J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

K.J. Jefferson, Arkansas

Kenyon Slovis. BYU

Jason Daniels, Kansas

Dillion Gabriel, Oklahoma

Jaxon Dart, Ole Miss

The Patriots Have Talent On Offense

Belichick, O'Brien and Mac Jones, I don't know who to blame but this thing that the team doesn't have any talent is fraudulent. They have talent, it's just not the Dolphins or Chief's roster build.

The Patriots have a good duo for first and second down in Stevenson and Elliot. The line could be better but Stevenson needs a lead blocker and Pharaoh Brown can be that. Elliot, doesn't need the lead blocker as much.

When Stevenson is on the field, Brown, Gesicki, Henry and Douglas should be on the field with him. And the team should be running play action when Stevenson is on the field. When Elliot is on the field, pull Brown and mix up using the other receivers.

One problem is, Montgomery is not James White and he's not Brandon's Boldon. The Patriots do not have a reliable slot-back for third down and Tyquan Thorton hasn't shown us that he can draw coverage down field the way Nelson Aguilar did in 2021. When the team had an experienced offensive coordinator. 

The Patriots should have four starting Linemen but they're not playing like it. The offensive line is last in the league in pass blocking. They should never of let Wynn go but they did and they don't have an answer for it, four weeks in. 

The core of this offense, the talent is once again, Elliot, Stevenson, Henry, Douglas and Gesicki. Those are the guys around Mac Jones. It's about putting the right package on the field around the quarterback and calling the right plays. 

And for Mac, he needs to trust his line and play smarter. Mac Jones's arm is as strong as Chad Pennington's arm. He's just been making uncharacteristic decisions.

Honestly, the problem at The moment is the trifecta of Belichick, O'Brien and Mac Jones. Not one of them individually but them collectively.

Three Areas That Hurt The Patriots

The Patriots have plenty of areas for improvement going into week two. They lost 25 to 20 because they gifted points to the eagles on multiple occasions.  While there were several players that had an impact and could get called out, here's ny three areas where I had issue.

Kendrick Bourne only caught 54% of his 11 targets. Although he caught 2 touchdowns, their were 5 passes that he didn't bring in. One he dropped and one he turned into an interception by not catching after getting his hands on it. Bourne's first half for most of it was not great. In fact, his day was inconsistent.

The offensive line was not up to par. They let their quarterback get pressured 27 times. They gave up 2 sacks, 4 quarterback hits and caused Mac Jones to scramble twice. The line only allowed Stevenson to rush for a 1.9 yard average on 12 carries.

And the the defensive line allowed 3.8 yards per carry. Almost every time the Eagles rushed up the middle it was a 3+ yard gain. The Patriots are still an open door in the middle of the line. They need a nose tackle or nose guard to clog the middle on the first two downs.

I don't know what the Patriots can do besides coach but they're gonna need improvement going forward or there's going to be a lot more close games like this.

Patriots Sign Jalen Reagor To The Practice Squad.

The Patriots signed Jalen Reagor to the practice squad. He was drafted in the first round by the Eagles in 2020. And has played for the Eagles and Vikings.

Reagor has only appeared in 45 games, being targeted 124 times, catching 72 of them for 799 yards and 4 scores. He's got 18 carries under his belt. He's also had a combined 73 returns over his career. Taking one punt to the house.

I went looking for to see what I could find out of college. Many said he could do alot but he was listed often as a Z or deep slot. His main problems where drops, route running, physicality, and consistency. Speed and versatility were the main things people talked about with him as his pros. Not much has changed.

His NFL comparisons were: Curtis Samuel, Stefon Diggs, Corey Coleman, Mecole Hardman, Randell Cobb, Percey Harvin, James Washington, D.J. Moore, and Tyreek Hill. I came across Samuel, Hardman, and Cobb a few times as comparisons. 

I saw him listed as an elite number two or low tier number one. He's the typical type of Patriots, with that being said. He brings skills that Tyquan Thorton was supposed to bring but if the Patriots can get consistency out of him, he also brings the skills that Kendrick Bourne has. And Bourne's in a contract year. Something to monitor for now.

Strong's Out, Wheatley's In, Patriots Make Trade.

In 2022 during the fourth round of the NFL draft, the Patriots selected Pierre Strong. Strong was expected to be a possible replacement for James White and possibly Damien Harris. Strong did see much time during his rookie year.

In 2022, Strong touched the ball as both a ball carrier and receiver, a total of 17 times for 142 yards and a touchdown. Unfortunately, Strong did not emerge as the back he was expected to be during the 2023 preseason and the Patriots traded him away for tackle Tyrone Wheatley.

Wheatley, who was buried on Cleveland's depth chart, is 6'6" 320 pounds. Wheatley went undrafted out of Stony Brook. Although he's viewed as a tackle, Stony Brook listed him as a tight end. It'm thinking subpar Mike Williams vibes.

According to The Football Database Wheatley played in 37 college games, starting 14 before entering the 2020 NFL draft. Wheatley turned 26 in February.

According to Oliver Thomas over at Forbes, "His 95.6 run-blocking grade qualified for second among tackles around the league in the preseason."

While Many list Wheatley as a developmental project, there's not much about his skill set. However, his dad played in the NFL and pretty much everyone has said that About the 26 year old. I guess that's all we need to know. 

Being acquired so late in the process, it's a pretty safe assumption that Wheatley makes the 53 man roster. I would also assume that the Patriots will be keeping Kevin Harris on the 53. In my roster projection, I have J.J. Taylor getting added once they place someone on injured reserve.

Patriots 53 Man Roster Projection

The Patriots 53 man roster cutdown is coming. August 29th the team must get down to a season regulation size roster. There's always the chance the Patriots could sign someone off of the waivers. But since I don't know who's getting cut from the other teams. I cannot put anyone not currently on the roster, on the initial 53 man roster. So here it is, my initial roster projection for 2023.

Quarterbacks 3

M. Jones

B. Zappe

M. Cunningham (released)

The Patriots will keep their slash. Cunningham has potential to be used like Kordell Stewart and Taysom Hill. Some think he will clear waivers, I don't think he will. However keeping him could make the Patriots thin at elsewhere. Do not expect him to jump Zappe this season.

Running Backs 3*

R. Stevenson

E. Elliot

P. Strong (traded for Tyrone Wheatley)

J. Taylor* > T. Montgomery (both released, let's see if I'm right about taylor)

I don't think the Patriots are going to risk cutting Strong yet. And I think they will want to develop him for one more season, while he sits behind Elliot. Kevin Harris needs the line to make holes and i don't think he's lived up to the powerback role he was drafted for. I have Taylor beating out Montgomery, providing he has a good game versus Tennessee and getting called up, once Bolden is placed on the injury reserve.

I was hoping Calvin Turner Jr would be on the roster but the Patriots haven't touched him. He's an upgrade over Montgomery.

Receivers 6

D. Parker

J. Smith-Schuster

K. Bourne

T. Thorton

D. Douglas

K. Boutte

I have the Patriots keeping 6 receivers. I think they need to play Thorton this season and I don't think the rookies will clear the waiver wire. While I think Bourne is on the trade block, he's with the team until they move him. Cunningham gives the team their seventh receiver.

Tight Ends 2

H. Henry

M. Gesicki

I don't think the other tight ends are at risk of being plucked. I expect that one of the practice squad tight ends may be activated for week one. Especially depending on how serious Henry's anf Gesicki's injuries are. I like Sokol and think he will end up on the roster at some point.

Offensive Linemen 10

T. Brown

C. Strange

D. Andrews

R. Reiff

M. Onwenu

C. McDermott (Put on Injured reserve, Patriots replaced by Vederian Love)

B. Murray (released, replaced by Wheatley)

J. Andrews

S. Sow

A. Mafi

(Patriots traded for Vederian Love)

I think Strange may go straight to the injured reserve to start the season. Which would allow the Patriots to call up someone from the practice squad, more than likely a tight end. The line is a liability, maybe Onwenu can fix it but I think the Patriots are in trouble. I think Vanterpool makes the practice squad, he got brought in too late in the process to compete for a roster spot.

Defensive Linemen 7

L. Guy

D. Ekuale

K. White

D. Wise

C. Barmore

D. Godchaux

C. Davis (released)

I have Davis making the roster because I think the Patriots are too light on the line. I thought Tavai would be better but he really hasn't shown much. I have a feeling Bill Murray will be doing double duty this season. The Patriots should've brought back Danny Shelton on a one year deal when they had the chance.

Linebackers 6

M. Mapu

M. Judon

Ja. Tavai

J. Uche

J. Bentley

A. Jennings 

The Patriots will use linebackers depending on the situation. Mapu I think will be a three down player. The others are going to depend on scheme. My question is who makes it to the practice squad of the guys cut.

Defensive Backs 12*

C. Gonzalez

M. Jones

Ja. Jones

Jo. Jones

K. Dugger

J. Peppers

A. Phillips

J. Mills

M. Bryant

B. Schooler

C. Davis

I. Bolden* IR

Jack Jones season is still pending. Bryant I think is going to float between safety and the nickel back. I think Mills is the starting free safety. Bolden I expect to make the 53, just to be placed on the injured reserve. He showed enough that I think he will get plucked if they release him and I think they will need him this season. I think speed could be elevated from the practice squad if Jack gets suspended or worse, locked up.

Special Teams 4

M. Slater

C. Ryland

J. Cardona

B. Baringer

Whether they trade or cut him, I don't think Folk is on the week one roster unless Ryland implodes between now and the time for the cutdown to 53. If he ends up on the roster by some chance, it will be at the expense of the offensive line. I wish Slater got used more on offense to help justify keeping him. At least Steve Tasker was a capable receiver. Slater is an alltime gunner but still.

If the Patriots make any claims from waivers during the cutdowns, it's got to be an offensive tackle and a nose tackle. Especially since they were unable to claim the nose tackle from Carolina due to a failed physical.

The Patriots Are Preparing The Future NFL Defense Today.

Whether it's a 3-2-6 dime or  a 5-0-6 dime, the future of the NFL is a Base dime defense. And the Patriots finally have allowed me to highlight what type of players are the prototypes for this defense.

The keystone or capstone to the foundation of this defense is a nose guard, a nose tackle. The last two the Patriots had of any value were Danny Shelton and 'Big' Vince Wilfork. Guys who could plug the middle on first and second downs and push the pocket back into the quarterback on third and passing downs. Lawrence Guy is not the guy the Patriots need and should stop forcing him into the position.

Then on the line, the Patriots need two defensive tackle / end hybrids. Most people remember Richard Seymour but if you don't, that's okay, the Patriots have Christian Barmore. He's strong enough to play defensive tackle and require double coverage but quick and fast enough to play defensive end and to hold his own.

While I don't like calling the position the edge, that's the only true name for this hybrid position. Guys like Willie McGinest, Rob Ninkovich have played the role but now Keion White. White was listed as being too small for an end and too big for an outside linebacker. In his small sample size, he has shown the ability to play end or outside linebacker.

Although I think safety can now play the role, if the Patriots need or want a true linebacker, Ja'Whaun Bentley is the mold. He has the speed, size and power needed to fill the middle linebacker role. Can be used to blitz or cover and can get all over the field.

For slot corner both Jonathan Jones and Marcus Jones have the speed and quickness needed for the position. They can play outside or possibly at free safety but their skills in the slot make them Ideal. They can spy the quarterback and cover the slot or the running back.

For the number two outside corner, J.C. Jackson and Jack Jones have the ideal skills to be a ballhawk. They will be bottom end number ones but as a number two, their skills should make them almost elite or shutdown.

The number one outside corner, the Patriots have had a slew at the position. Stephen Gilmore and Christian Gonzalez are the mold for what you want. Intelligent, quick and fast. Capable of going one on one in man coverage against anyone.

The strong safety has to be a middle linebacker that can cover. Dugger and Mapu are the prototypes for the modern era. Guys that should be able to to blitz, tackle a running back or cover a tight end. Having two of these guys on the field at once allows the Patriots to rotate and disguise who is the safety and who is playing linebacker.

And lastly, free safety. Devon McCourty and Jalen Mills and possibly Miles Bryant are what you're looking for. Guys with traits to be an average number two corner but are better suited as a free safety due to their intelligence. 

Looking for and drafting or signing guys who are physical clones of the players listed who show the same type of skills, is the future of the NFL. Especially with the way the game is evolving. The Patriots are trying to run a big nickel but it's the dime they should be moving towards. With these type of players the Patriots could run a 3-0-8, a 3-1-7, a 3-2-6, 5-0-6 and in an situation setting, a 5-1-5 and be successful. It's all about the type of players and football intelligence.

The Patriots Looked Mediocre Hosting The Texans

The Patriots first preseason game is in the books. The Patriots fall 20 - 9 in a game that wasn't as close as the score suggests. 

The Patriots only had 78 rushing yards and averaged under 5 yards a completion. The only reason the Patriots even had so many rushing yards, was because the Texans surrendered them.

The Texans had time to pass and were more aggressive, picking up 11 first downs via the air, compared to the Patriots 2. The Texans also had the ball 5 minutes longer than the Pats. 

 The secondary was okay but the rest of the team was crap. The biggest issue to me was a lack of play in the trenches. The offensive line was horrible and the defensive line was slow and gave up to many runs they should've stuffed.

Zappe went 12 of 14 with another of check Downs. Cunningham went 3 of 4 but the Texans played him more conservatively.

The running backs did better for the Patriots in the second half but part of that was the defense started backing off.

As for the pass catchers, seperation still looks like it's gonna be an issue but the team is going to need to go quick game more if they cannot get better protection up front. 

I thought Barranger the Punter's placement could've been better. 

What I saw from the Patriots was the the players that played seemed slight below to a whole depth chart level below the Texans personnel. The Patriots looked like a mediocre team. The team will have to come out strong when Mac takes the field.

The Patriots Aren't Ready For The Preseason

After the first week of practice, I came away with an opinion that the defensive was good but was having it's stats inflated by the offense. And that although the offense and special teams appear better than last year, that they were a work in progress.

After the put the pads on for the first time, I said I wasn't really going to write again until something significant happened. And unfortunately as of Saturday August 5th, that hasn't happened yet.

There was a point this offense season where people were saying the offense was looking like the 2021 offense as far as knowledge. Now, they're saying it's almost there. Matt Patricia was pretty much the best or near best of the bottom 8 coordinators and at the moment, I do not know how much better the 2023 offense will be. 

The offensive line is a huge hole. I'll be shocked if Douglas is a huge weapon come week one. Henry and Parker have been okay but JuJu and Gesicki have to make a leap. Bourne and Thorton honestly haven't been that spectacular. And Boutte just started playing well. 

Rylandbhas a stringer leg but he isn't looking anymore reliable than Folk. But the Patriots have Barringer. And I haven't seen any good news about the return game.

Don't be surprised if the offensive line gets destroyed in the upcoming preseason game. I don't think the offense is where it should be. And the missing Linemen don't help.

The Difference Between The X,Y, And Z Receivers.

I had a conversation earlier with another member of the Patriots Nation Fandom. We were talking about the Patriots receivers not getting seperation and they said it was because the Patriots didn't invest in a number one X receiver. I disagreed and realized we had a different opinion of the X position.

When it comes to the X-receiver spot, I think of a guy that's a minimum of 6'2" and between 225-245 pounds. They should have long arms and a high vertical. I expect them to run a 40 time between 4.5 and 4.75. I expect them to have a slower three cone time. It's not a position of seperation but if everyone is covered, they should be able to catch the ball. Basically, a last resort unless one wants to throw the ball away.

The Z receiver I think of a 6' 200 pound guy with a more advanced route tree. They might not have the best jump ball skills but they'll run a 4.3 to a low 4.5. While having an average three cone score. These are the burners that will get seperation on go routes and deep crossers and slants but are better used in the intermediate passing game.

The typical slot should be 5'10" and 180 pounds. They should have a better long jump than vertical. Their 40 time should be between 4.4 and a 4.65. However, they should have a fast three cone time.  These are the guys that are going to get seperation in the short to intermediate range horizontally and in the middle of traffic. They are the ones known for being a death of a thousand paper cuts.

There are two other types of slots. The big slot should have the size and 40 speed of an X receiver. The deep slot should have the size and 40 speed of Z receiver. Both hybrids should have a slightly lower three cone than a normal slot but still better than the other two positions.

Move tight ends I think of as a big slot that is 6'4" 245 pounds with some blocking ability. The h-back tight end I think of a guy that runs a 4.7 40 time with an elite three cone time. And the third down back (slot back) should be a typical 5'10" slot receiver only they should weight an extra 20-25 pounds.

When I hear Patriots fans talk about a number one receiver, to me they describe a Z receiver or a deep slot. They're not describing an X receiver. At least not what I would consider one this millennium. Jerry Rice ran a 4.71 40 time. He was a number one but by 2003, if played correctly, he was a big slot. Corners are too fast these days for a 4.7 receiver to be a speedy number one at the X. 

Worst part is. I don't even think most fans that describe Rice when talking about the X receiver position, know who he is. Everything is Randy Moss. And guys with his speed and skills do not come along every Draft. Moss is a lottery jackpot. The needle in the haystack. We're lucky if one maybe two of him come a decade. But back to the X position, it's not a number one because it gets seperation, if it's a number one, it's because it's your best chance at a completion when everyone is covered. 

So Far Nothing Significant Has Happened And We're Six Practices In To Camp.

My takeaway from practice has been the defensive looks elite against this offense, which, like the special teams, is a work in progress. And the Patriots either need to sign a halfback that can play fullback or an h-back that they can use as a fullback, slot back, and halfback. The pads came off on Tuesday, but did the team make any improvements?

Quarterback play got worse as we went down the depth chart today. For the sixth practice, the line cannot protect the quarterbacks. The backup offensive linemen were a grade level below the defense.

Pass catchers cannot get seperation for the sixth consecutive practice, some of that is due to the protection giving way. Jalen Hurd retired. Douglas continues to look better than Thorton and Bourne. Defense continues to shine, especially the pass coverage. Ryland got work and wasn't spectacular from short distance.

I figured as much as far as we weren't going to see much of difference. I keep waiting for something worth talking about and there really has been nothing. Until the offense gives us something to talk about, this will be a lackluster camp to report on. I'll keep paying attention but I'm not gonna write again until something significant happens.

The Patriots Put Pads On But It Didn't Make The Needed Impact.

My takeaway from the first four days of practice is the defensive looks elite against this offense, which like the special teams, is a work in progress. Today being the first day in pads, would that change, that is the question.

Offense continues to look like it's designed for Mac. No quarterback competition still. It's Mac's job to lose.

Harris looked good and got extra reps. Coach Ross Douglas got some reps at running. Tavaii was used at fullback instead of tight ends and looked bad. Montgomery's backup Jalen Hurd had a good day but may have gotten injured at the end of camp.

Damaris Douglas continues to standout. Juju and Boutte had a good day. Bourne five practices in, finally has one catch. Sokol had a good day.

Strange got injured and online appears to be banged up deep, at least eight Linemen were out. Alternative league Linemen brought in for workouts. Murray and McDermott had a good day. Reiff with another bad day.

Defense dominanted today due to lack of depth on offense. Mapu looked good again. Bolden had another good day.

Barringer had a good day, no word on the kicker battle. Cunningham saw work as a gunner.

Overall summary:

My takeaway from camp hasn't changed from yesterday. And the Patriots either need to sign a halfback that can play fullback or an h-back that they can use as a fullback, slot back and halfback. 

Sunday's Patriots Practice Was More Of The Same.

So the Patriots returned after their first day off of practice. I wouldn't call it significant yet. And before I get into what was said today, let me remind everyone of what was said about the first three days of camp.

Here's my summary from last week:

Mac is the starter. Montgomery and Douglass appear to be all three quarterbacks favorite targets. Seperation is still an issue for the pass catchers. And the guys that are supposed to be good at catching the ball while covered (contested catch guys) are struggling to do so. The right tackle is inflating defensive stats and the secondary looks elite against this group of pass catchers. Special teams hasn't been the focus yet and the team needs to start hitting asap.

Okay, now on to camp for Sunday July 30th.

The offense looks as good as a McDaniels offense. The offense looks good when not practicing in the red zone. Pass catcher seperation was an issue again, along with pass blocking.

The quarterbacks looked better. Zappe finally looked like he was at least an nfl backup quarterback for the first time in camp.

Running backs were heavily checked down to against the pass rush. Harris and Hurd had a good day with Montgomery out.

JuJu had a good day. Bourne had another bad day. Damaris Douglas continues to look like a starter. Thorton finally had a good day. 

Gesicki had a good day. Sokol and Lumpkin are in a competition for TE three. Frisker got a lot of red zone work. 

The offensive line is still bad. Murray and McDermott still starting. Onwenu is still out and Reiff was with the second string.

Front seven dominanted the offensive line. Mapu moved back to linebacker and was solid. Tavaii is looking like a star.

Jack Jones finally got to start and had a good day. Mills made plays at free safety. And the secondary continues to shine, however the second unit was a little closer matched to the pass catchers without Jack Jones.

Berringer won the first punting competition.

Ryland is winning on kickoffs, kicker competition still too close to call but Ryland has the stronger leg. Bryant got more work as a returner.

Quick notes: former Patriot superbowl hero Sony Michel retired. And N'Keal Harry met with the Buffalo Bills. Harry could be an emergency signing if the Patriots get an injury.

Summary:

After four days of camp the sports media could basically say or write the following: "Patriots defense looks elite against their offense, which like their special teams, is still a work in progress." However, if that's all they wrote, nobody would tune in and they need clicks and views to make money.