The New England Patriots will have their work cut out for them to finish with a winning record, much less make the playoffs in the 2023 season.
A brutal slate of opponents will test the many changes that came with the roster and coaching staff in the offseason. So what initially seemed like two steps forward might feel like two steps back for a Patriots team that has missed the playoffs in two of the last three seasons.
With that said, it would be foolish to write the team off before they even step onto the field. The defense was already really good last season, and with the additions they’ve made through the NFL draft, they have the potential to be a top-three unit this time around.
As for the offense, they should be much-improved in that area with Bill O’Brien and Adrian Klemm joining the coaching staff. Time will tell if it’s enough to actually get them over the hump.
Here are five takeaways from the Patriots’ 2023 schedule: