AFC East unanswered questions: Can Geno Smith save Aaron Glenn?

Teams have a much clearer picture of where they stand now that free agency and the NFL Draft are in the rearview mirror. That doesn't mean every question has been answered.

As teams continue preparing for training camp in late July, each still faces a key unknown — one that could determine whether it reaches its ceiling this season, whether that's winning the Super Bowl or simply improving on its 2025 record.

With that in mind, let's examine the biggest unanswered question facing each team in the AFC East.

Buffalo Bills | Will new leadership get them over the hump?

The Bills fired longtime head coach Sean McDermott, one of the more successful in franchise history, after another playoff exit. They promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach while bringing in Jim Leonhard as defensive coordinator. Josh Allen is elite, but Buffalo has repeatedly come up short in January.

Brady’s offensive creativity and Leonhard’s new scheme represent a major shift in Buffalo. The offense has been among the league’s best, but the biggest unknown is whether fresh voices and schematic changes can translate to better execution in the postseason and finally deliver a Super Bowl appearance or their first title. 

Miami Dolphins | Is Malik Willis the long-term answer at quarterback?

The Dolphins had a full reset this offseason after parting ways with Tua Tagovailoa, former head coach Mike McDaniel, and other veterans. With that, they hired Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley and GM Jon-Eric Sullivan.

One of their biggest moves this off-season was signing Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million deal as the starter on a young roster with low expectations. Success depends on his development in the new system, the supporting cast, and whether Miami’s thin receiving corps and defense can provide enough help to answer that question long-term.

New York Jets | Can Geno Smith stabilize the organization and fuel a turnaround?

After a poor 3-14 season under Aaron Glenn as head coach, they acquired veteran quarterback Geno Smith via trade to pair with Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall.

Smith brings experience but dealt with inefficiency and turnovers in 2025 with the Las Vegas Raiders. The question is whether he can provide steady production behind an improved offensive line, a new scheme, and, by elevating the talent around him to help save Aaron Glenn's tenure. 

New England Patriots | Has the protection gotten any better?

The Patriots went 14-3 in 2025, won the division, and reached the Super Bowl, led by Drake Maye's breakout. That said, the offensive line showed vulnerabilities (especially in pass protection), which was on display in the Super Bowl. 

Improving the trenches to keep Maye upright should've been their top priority for long-term health and success. They added Alijah Vera-Tucker, who has been injury-prone during the course of his career, and a pair of rookie selections in Caleb Lomu and Dametrious Crownover. Will it be enough for 2026.