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Patriots Ranked Third Most Likely to Go ‘Worst-to-First’

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nelson Hubbell | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 11:15 AM ET

The New England Patriots are positioning themselves to make a massive leap of improvement this year from last season's record of 4-12. This comes after bringing in new head coach Mike Vrabel, followed by a huge offseason of signings and trades.

According to Aaron Schatz of ESPN, the Patriots are one of the NFL's most likely teams to make the jump from "worst-to-first" for the upcoming season.

First and second in the rankings are the San Francisco 49ers (6-11) and the Chicago Bears (5-12), but slotting into third place are the New England Patriots.

Schatz noted Drake Maye's inspiring first season as one of the key indicators towards team success. Maye's QBR ranked 17th in the NFL at 58.6, which is notable considering he was in his rookie year.

Maye, in combination with several key additions this offseason, are making the case for a major record improvement.

That started with investing in five new offensive linemen through the draft and free agency that will be competing for starting jobs. More key additions include multiple starting-caliber players like Carlton Davis III, Will Campbell and Stefon Diggs.

Look for a renewed approach at New England under Vrabel and with a quarterback at the helm that now has a full NFL season under his belt.

Still, making the jump this season to a .500 record or better will not be easy for the Patriots in the AFC East. Having to face Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills, an electric Miami Dolphins offense, and a revamped New York Jets.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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