Robert Kraft reflects on 28-3 Super Bowl comeback

Kraft often points to his team’s improbable comeback in the 2017 Super Bowl as a reminder that the impossible can become reality. Whenever someone tells him a goal can’t be achieved, he uses that historic moment to reinforce the power of resilience and belief.

“When people believe something is impossible, I go ’28-3,’” the Patriots owner said during an appearance on the Adam Schefter Podcast.

Robert Kraft and the Patriots in Super Bowl LI

With just over two minutes remaining in the third quarter of Super Bowl LI, the Atlanta Falcons seemed poised to claim their first NFL title, holding a dominant 28-3 lead over the New England Patriots. But New England mounted a furious rally, scoring 25 straight points to force overtime.

In the extra period, Tom Brady orchestrated a 75-yard drive, capped by James White powering into the end zone for the decisive touchdown. The dramatic comeback secured a 34-28 win and delivered the Patriots their fifth Super Bowl championship.

That Super Bowl would become one of the final championships shared by Robert Kraft, Tom Brady, and Bill Belichick. Together, the trio captured six titles, forming one of the most successful dynasties in NFL history.

The Patriots have struggled to recapture their former glory since Tom Brady’s departure. They haven’t come close to a Super Bowl appearance, and with Bill Belichick now gone as well, Robert Kraft stands as the last remaining figure from that iconic trio.

Tom Brady may be gone, but the Patriots are hopeful they’ve found their next franchise quarterback in Drake Maye. As he prepares for his second NFL season, Maye has already impressed both team owner Robert Kraft and new head coach Mike Vrabel. Vrabel takes the reins following the departure of Jerod Mayo, who was let go after just one season and a disappointing four-win campaign.

The Patriots, like the rest of the NFL, will open training camp in July. Whether they can recapture the resilience and grit of that legendary 28-3 comeback remains to be seen as they look to turn a new page this season.