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Pierce Downey

Pierce Downey is a Texas-based Patriots fan who has previously written for Stadium Rant and Around The Block Network in the past. Downey also appears on numerous podcasts and talk shows to discuss football. You can follow him on Twitter @patsdowney.

Preseason opener shakes up Patriots' backup QB situation

The ongoing battle between second-year quarterback Bailey Zappe and rookie Joe Milton for the Patriots' third QB slot saw important developments in their 17-3 preseason victory against the Carolina Panthers on Thursday.

Three under-the-radar Patriots defenders who could make a leap this season

Entering 2024, Patriots backups on defense seem more promising. Here are under-the-radar players who have the potential to transform the defense.

What Jabrill Peppers extension means for Patriots

Per Pro Football Focus metrics, Peppers was rated as the fifth-best safety in the NFL last year. In 15 games, he recorded two interceptions (tied for most on the team), one forced fumble (second-most) and 78 total tackles (fourth-most).

Three important decisions the Patriots must make before regular season

With starters not finalized and contracts unsettled, New England Patriots rookie head coach Jerod Mayo and de facto general manager Eliot Wolf have work to do beginning Tuesday, when veterans report to training camp.

Three storylines to follow during Patriots training camp

The Patriots underwent major renovations this offseason and will head into the season with a new set of coaches, quarterbacks and receivers. 

Why Patriots' Christian Gonzalez has an important season ahead of him

Entering training camp, tons of attention will be on Patriots second-year cornerback Christian Gonzalez.

Previewing additions to the Patriots' 2024 receiving corps

Here is an analysis of New England's recent additions and what they mean for the future of the squad.

How the Patriots should handle their quarterbacks

For the 2024 season, the New England Patriots drastically altered the makeup of their quarterback room. 

Jayden Daniels or Drake Maye? Evaluating potential Patriots QB options in NFL Draft

For the Patriots, the 2024 NFL Draft is one of the more intriguing and important drafts in franchise history. 

Three players for the Patriots to consider on Day 3 of the NFL Draft

Successful Day 3 selections can be crucial in fielding a dominant football team.

What the Patriots' objectives should be for the NFL Draft

The offseason for the Patriots has involved plenty of moves, but none have advanced the team as a whole. 

Release of Chargers veteran WR could be great news for Patriots

The Chargers released veteran wide receiver Mike Williams on Wednesday, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, a move that could be great news for the Patriots.

What this recent agreement with RB means for the Patriots

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, former Commanders running back Antonio Gibson has agreed to a three-year, $11.25M deal with the Patriots. 

Identifying Patriots' priorities as free agency looms

The New England Patriots are in flux and need to set their priorities.

Why the Patriots are retaining tight end Hunter Henry

The New England Patriots agreed with tight end Hunter Henry on a three-year, $27M base deal with a max value of $30M, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo reported Friday. 

Patriots' unconventional move with veteran safety could pay dividends

He is one of New England's most crucial defensive players, recording 109 tackles and two interceptions in 2023. 

Who the Patriots have shown, not shown interest in at the NFL Combine

The NFL Scouting Combine is a chance for teams to evaluate the physical skills soon-to-be-drafted players possess. The New England Patriots have had interviews with some of the draft's top players, but not all.

Three best options for the Patriots at offensive line

The New England Patriots will have important decisions to make about the offensive line.

What the Patriots offense will look like in 2024

Recently hired New England offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt will bring with him a West Coast offense, an attack the Patriots have never run.

Free-agent options for the Patriots at quarterback

Understanding the Patriot's new OC's system makes narrowing down New England's options at QB much easier.

Son of Hall of Famer impresses and other top takeaways from final Senior Bowl practice

MOBILE, Ala. — On Thursday at Hancock Whitney Stadium, players practiced for the third and final day in preparation for Saturday's Reese's Senior Bowl.

Record-breaking QB's stock plummets and other top takeaways from the second day of the Reese's Senior Bowl

Bo Nix looked physically and mentally sluggish, but other players looked great on Day 2.

How the Patriots should handle their key outgoing free agents

New England is slated to lose key starters, and how new HC Jerod Mayo handles these players could determine the outcome of the 2024 season.

Takeaways from Jerod Mayo's introductory news conference

Mayo made several statements that gave Patriots fans a glimpse into what the future of the franchise will look like.