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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.

Why Robert Kraft's goal for Patriots in 2023 is nearly impossible to achieve

As an owner, having a Super Bowl expectation for your team is a bold move, but it is especially bold for Kraft, whose organization features a league-average roster and extremely difficult regular-season schedule. 

What the Jack Jones arrest could mean for New England's secondary

Examining the cornerback depth for the New England Patriots following the airport arrest of Jack Jones on weapon charges.

How the Patriots could deploy rookie quarterback

The Patriots could have another versatile piece on their hands in rookie QB Malik Cunningham.

Astros outfielder's future with team could be in jeopardy

Aside from a recent stellar performance in the opener of a series against the Toronto Blue Jays, third-year Astros outfielder Jake Meyers has struggled to find his place in Houston during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

No reason for Astros fans to panic over team's slow start

Astros fans sounded the alarm on social media after Houston dropped a series to the Texas Rangers on Sunday. But they have no reason to panic.

Kyle Tucker proves why Astros should extend him in dominating performance

In the face of criticism and annoyance from fans, the Houston Astros (5-6) pounded out 13 hits and a season-high-tying eight runs to earn a victory in their series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates (6-4) on Monday.

Patriots re-sign Jalen Mills, reportedly moving him to safety

Mills was not initially projected to be an unrestricted free agent in the 2023 offseason, but the team released him for cap-related reasons. 

Patriots dealing TE Jonnu Smith to Falcons

The New England Patriots are trading tight end Jonnu Smith to the Atlanta Falcons for a seventh-round pick.

Jon Scheyer could be Duke's head coach for a long time

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has shown that he has what it takes to lead the men's basketball program for years into the future.

Boston College WR Zay Flowers transforms himself for NFL Combine

NFL prospects are known to improve their physiques before the NFL Scouting Combine. Boston College WR Zay Flowers evidently embraced that process. In the offseason, Flowers bulked up for the combine, which starts Tuesday in Indianapolis.

Options for Patriots if longtime FS Devin McCourty retires

Devin McCourty, New England's longtime starting free safety, is mulling retirement. His ultimate decision could determine the team's direction in free agency and draft.  If McCourty retires, the Patriots could turn to either the Draft, free agency or a promotion from within as a replacement.

Matt Patricia's days with Patriots could be numbered after coaching additions

The Patriots are set to hire Oregon's Adrian Klemm as offensive line coach, and New England recently added Bill O'Brien as offensive coordinator. Those additions make Patricia's role murky.

Patriots add Alabama's Will Lawing to coaching staff

The Patriots have added Will Lawing to the coaching staff.  Lawing's last three coaching jobs with Penn State (2013), the Texans (2014-2020), and Alabama (2021-2022) have all been with Bill O'Brien, who is New England's current offensive coordinator.

Three players for Patriots to consider on Days 2-3 of NFL Draft

Day 2-3 picks in the NFL Draft often transform rosters. In the 2023 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots will have 10 picks from the second to seventh rounds. Here are players who might be on the Patriots' radar.

Why 2023 will be a critical year for Patriots QB Mac Jones

With Mac Jones' decline in 2022 and a new offensive coordinator hired for the New England Patriots, the 2023 season will be a pivotal one for the young quarterback.

Patriots make great call by hiring Bill O'Brien as OC

The Patriots have hired Bill O'Brien as offensive coordinator,  a move sure to rejuvenate a lackluster offense and bring smiles to New England fans everywhere.

Potential options for Patriots with 14th overall pick

After finishing 8-9 and missing the playoffs, the Patriots have the 14th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and should have some interesting options with the selection.

Potential candidates for Patriots offensive coordinator role

In 2022, New England's offense was poor, ranking 17th in points (21.4) and 26th in yards (314.6) per game. In a cryptic tweak late last week, New England announced it had an opening at offensive coordinator.

Assessing the offseason priorities, options for the Patriots

There are plenty of holes to fill if the Pats want to get back to the postseason, and they'll need to address all of them to keep up with an ever-improving AFC East.

How the New England Patriots can make the playoffs

Heading into the final week of the regular season, New England holds the seventh and final seed in the AFC playoffs. The Patriots (8-8) can clinch a playoff spot with a win at Buffalo on Sunday, but that's not the only way they can get in.

Patriots' playoff road laden with potholes after wild loss to Raiders

On Sunday, Patriots receiver Jakobi Meyers chucked a backward lateral 20 yards into the hands of Raiders defensive end Chandler Jones, who stiff-armed Mac Jones and rumbled for the winning touchdown. He may have also tossed away a playoff spot.